Updated 25 October 2026. Google My Business became Google Business Profile in 2021, and the verification steps have changed since we first wrote this. This version follows Google's current help pages.
Sometimes you have to change your business details. You've moved, rebranded, got a new phone number or changed what you sell. Your Google Business Profile needs to keep up, or customers end up at the wrong address or calling a dead number.
Changing your details is usually simple. But some changes come with extra steps, so it helps to know what to expect.
What happens when you edit your profile
You can edit your profile from Google Search or the Google Maps app, while signed in to the Google Account that manages it. Search for your business, select Edit profile, make your change and save.
Google reviews changes before they go live. Many edits appear within minutes, but some can take longer. Google says attribute edits, for example, usually take about 10 minutes and can sometimes take up to 30 days. Service area changes can take up to 48 hours.
Changes that may mean verifying again
Some changes can mean Google asks you to verify your business again.
- Business name: Google says that if you change your name after verifying, you might need to verify again.
- Address: if you move to a new address, you'll need to verify again.
- Other details: Google may ask you to re-verify after other recent updates to your profile, or ask for more information.
If the Get verified button appears on your profile again, Google couldn't fully verify your business. Select it and follow the steps, or try another method.
How re-verification works
Re-verifying works the same way as verifying the first time. Google chooses which methods you're offered. They can include:
- Phone or text: you get a code by call or SMS. You need to be able to answer your business phone, and automated phone systems won't receive the code.
- Email: you get a link at the address shown on the verification screen.
- Video recording: you record a short, continuous video on your phone showing your location, your business and that you manage it. Read our guide for service area businesses for what to show.
- Live video call: you talk with a Google representative and show your business on camera, during your business hours.
- Postcard: a code is mailed to your address.
Google says verification reviews can take up to 5 business days.
If you're waiting on a postcard
Most codes arrive within 14 days and expire after 30 days. While you wait:
- don't change your business name, address or category
- don't request a new code, because that cancels the one in the mail
When it arrives, enter the 5-digit code on your profile and select Submit.
Will changing your details hurt your ranking?
It can for a while, and it depends on the change.
Google says businesses with complete and accurate information are more likely to show up in local search results. A new name or address means Google has to check your details again, and other websites may still show the old ones. Until that settles, you may see some ups and downs.
To keep the dip short:
- Update everywhere, at the same time. Change your details on Google, Apple, Bing and Facebook, your website, and directories you're listed in.
- Use your real name. The name on your signage, stationery and branding. Don't add keywords.
- Keep your primary category steady. Every location of a business must share the same primary category, so only change it when your business has truly changed.
- Tell your customers. A Google post about your move or new name helps regulars find you.
Protecting your details after the change
Google can also change your details based on suggestions from the public. After a move or rebrand, an old address or name can creep back in this way.
Local Intelligence on Premium includes Location Shield. It locks your listing details so suggested edits can't overwrite them, and it detects and reverts unauthorised changes to addresses, phone numbers, hours and categories. It also pushes your updated details to Google, Apple, Bing and Facebook from one place.
Not sure your details are right everywhere? The free audit scores every location out of 100 and shows what to fix. See pricing for the plans.