Guide

Google Business Profile suspended: how to get it back

Fix whatever breaks Google's guidelines, then appeal through Google's Business Profile appeals tool with proof your business is real at that name and address, such as a business licence or a utility bill. Don't create a new profile for the same business: Google says not to.

Why profiles get suspended

Google says it may suspend or disable profiles "that don't follow our guidelines". For trade businesses, the usual causes are:

  • Keywords in the business name, like "Smith Plumbing - Best Emergency Plumber Tacoma"
  • A PO box, virtual office or an address customers can't visit shown as a shopfront
  • Showing a home address instead of hiding it and setting a service area
  • More than one profile for the same business
  • Listing hours nobody answers, or a call-centre number instead of your own

How to appeal

First, fix whatever breaks the guidelines. Then use Google's Business Profile appeals tool. Evidence is optional, but it helps:

  • Your business registration or contractor licence
  • Tax documents
  • A utility bill (electricity, phone, water or internet)
  • The name and address on every document must match your profile

What happens next

Google reviews the appeal and emails you its decision. It doesn't publish a timeframe. While you wait, don't open a new profile for the same business: Google says not to, and a duplicate can make things worse.

Staying clear of it

  • Use your real business name, exactly as on your van, website and invoices
  • Hide your address and set a service area if you go to customers
  • Keep hours to the times someone actually answers
  • Use as few categories as describe what your business is

We'll keep your Google profile working. Reviews answered, a post every week and your details kept accurate, as part of Cakewalk. Free until we send you your first new customer enquiry, then $197.50/mo for 6 months, then $395/mo.

See how it works

Questions

How long does Google take to reinstate a suspended profile?

Google doesn't publish a timeframe. It reviews the appeal and emails you the decision.

Should I make a new Google Business Profile if mine is suspended?

No. Google's help page says "Do not create a new Business Profile for the same business."

What documents help a Google Business Profile appeal?

Google lists business registration, a business licence, tax certificates and utility bills, with the name and address matching your profile.

Sources

More guides: How to verify your Google Business Profile · Google Guaranteed, now Google Verified: what contractors need to know · Google Local Services Ads: a plain guide for contractors · Voicemail greetings for contractors: examples you can use today · How to get more Google reviews for a trade business · How to get your business recommended by ChatGPT