Updated 25 October 2026. Google My Business is now Google Business Profile, and Google now offers several ways to verify. This version follows Google's current help pages.
Before your business can be managed on Google, you need to verify it. That proves to Google that you really run the business at that address.
A postcard was once the most common way to verify. It's still one of the options, but Google now decides which methods each business is offered. You might see phone, text, email, a video recording, a live video call or a postcard. If the postcard is your option, these dos and don'ts will help you get verified without delays.
A verification postcard from the Google My Business days. Today's cards may look different.
Do
1. Wait patiently
Google says most codes arrive within 14 days. Codes expire after 30 days. Give it the full two weeks before you worry.
2. Enter the code as soon as it arrives
- Sign in with the same Google Account you used to request the postcard.
- Open your Business Profile. If you manage several, open the one you're verifying.
- Select Get verified and enter the 5-digit code from your postcard.
- Select Submit.
Google says it can take up to 5 business days to review your verification after that.
3. Finish your profile once you're verified
Once you're verified, complete everything: hours, attributes, photos, products or services. Then start posting and asking for reviews. Our guide to Google Business Profile covers what to fill in.
Don't
1. Change your details while you wait
Google says not to edit your business name, address or category after you've requested a code. Changing them can mean starting again with a new code.
2. Request another code
Google warns that requesting a new code invalidates the one already in the mail. Ask once, and wait.
3. Type the code in carelessly
Check each digit before you submit. Too many wrong entries can stop you verifying that profile by postcard.
4. Let the code expire
Codes last 30 days. If yours expires, you'll need a new one, and the wait starts again. Enter it the day it arrives.
If the postcard never comes
If 14 days have passed and nothing's arrived:
- check the address on your profile is complete and correct, including unit or shop numbers
- check with whoever collects your mail, especially in a shared building or shopping centre
- open your profile and see if Google now offers another method, such as phone, email or video
If the Get verified button reappears on your profile, Google couldn't verify you. Try again, or use another method.
Other ways to verify
Depending on your business, Google may offer:
- Phone or text: a code by call or SMS. Automated phone systems can't receive it.
- Email: a link to the email address on the verification screen.
- Video recording: a short, continuous video from your phone showing your location, your business and that you manage it. Our service area business guide explains what to film.
- Live video call: a call with a Google representative during your business hours.
After verification
Verifying is the first step, not the last. If you change your name or move, you may need to verify again. Read what happens when you change your business info.
For brands with many locations, Local Intelligence brings every verified location into one console. Its audit scores each one out of 100 and shows what to fix first. The Free plan includes the audit. See pricing, or read how we help multi-location brands.