What Should I Do If Google Asks for Verification of My Business Name?

Short Answer: If Google requests verification of your business name, the best approach is to add your business name as a DBA (Doing Business As) under your existing business. Should Google require proof that this is your official business name, you can resubmit your Google Business Profile to demonstrate ownership and authenticity.

Full Explanation

When Google asks you to verify your business name, it means they want to ensure that the name you are using accurately represents your business. This commonly occurs when there might be a discrepancy or when you are updating your profile. Adding your business name as a DBA (Doing Business As) is a formal way to confirm that this name is legitimately connected to your business operations. If any additional proof is needed, Google may require you to resubmit your Google Business Profile, which serves as official evidence that the business name belongs to you.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Add your business name as a DBA: Update your business information by including the name as a Doing Business As. This clarifies your business identity to Google.
Prepare for verification: Be ready for Google to ask for confirmation that the name you provided truly belongs to your business.
Resubmit your Google Business Profile: In response to Google’s request, submit your profile again to confirm your ownership and validate the business name.
Wait for confirmation: After resubmitting, wait for Google to review your submission and approve the name verification.

Real Examples

Consider a business originally named “Smith Consulting” that wants to use “Smith Tech Solutions” as a public-facing name. Google requests verification of “Smith Tech Solutions.” By adding “Smith Tech Solutions” as a DBA and resubmitting the Google Business Profile, the business clarifies to Google that this new name is legitimately part of the business.

Common Mistakes

Not adding the business name as a DBA when Google requests verification, which can cause delays.
Failing to resubmit the Google Business Profile when asked, leading to incomplete verification.
Ignoring the verification request entirely, which may result in Google removing or limiting your business presence.

FAQs

Q: What is a DBA?
A DBA stands for “Doing Business As” and is an official way to register alternate business names under your primary business.

Q: How do I resubmit my Google Business Profile?
You can update your profile information in your Google My Business account and submit it again for review.

Q: What if Google still does not verify my business name?
Continue providing proof of ownership as requested, ensuring all information matches your business records.

Key Takeaways

Adding your business name as a DBA helps clarify your identity for Google.
Verification requests should be met by resubmitting your Google Business Profile.
Prompt and accurate responses to Google ensure your business name remains verified and visible.