Why Was I Asked to Prove the Address Location When Setting Up a GMB in the Past?

Short Answer: If you were asked to prove your address location, it was likely because you were creating a Google My Business (GMB) profile for a physical office location rather than setting up a service area business.

Full Explanation

When setting up a GMB profile, Google requires verification to ensure that the business information provided is accurate and trustworthy. If your profile represents a physical office location that customers can visit, Google asks for proof of the exact address. This process helps Google confirm the business’s legitimacy and the precise place where customers can find it.

On the other hand, if you were setting up your GMB for a service area — meaning your business goes out to customers instead of them coming to a fixed address — the requirements differ. Service area businesses typically do not have to prove a specific office address because the business operates in various locations or serves customers at their own address.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Identify Business Type: Determine if your business has a physical office location or operates as a service area business.
2. Setup GMB Profile: When setting up your GMB profile, enter the relevant details, including the address for office locations.
3. Verification Request: For office locations, Google requests proof of address to verify the location where customers visit.
4. Providing Proof: Submit documents or evidence acceptable to Google to confirm the physical address of your business.
5. Service Area Businesses: If your business does not have a fixed office location and serves customers at their locations, different verification measures apply and proving a fixed address is typically not required.

Real Examples

For instance, if you operate a retail store or a professional office where clients visit, Google will want to confirm your physical address by asking for documentation or other proof. Conversely, if you run a mobile cleaning service or a delivery business without a storefront, Google focuses on the service area covered, and proving an address is usually not necessary.

Common Mistakes

• Confusing a service area business with a physical office location, leading to unnecessary proof of address requests.
• Submitting incorrect or incomplete address verification documents, causing delays in confirmation.
• Failing to recognize that address proof is only required for office locations, leading to frustration during the GMB setup.

FAQs

Why does Google require address verification for office locations?

To ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the business location for users searching on Google.

Do I need to prove my address if my business serves customers at their location?

No, if you are setting up a service area business, proving a fixed address is usually not necessary.

What happens if I don’t provide the proof of address when required?

Your GMB profile may not be verified, which can limit your visibility and credibility on Google.

Key Takeaways

• Proof of address is primarily required when setting up a GMB for a physical office location.
• Service area businesses generally do not have to prove a fixed address.
• Understanding the difference between office locations and service areas can simplify the GMB setup process.