Claiming a business on Google gives an eligible business owner or authorised representative the ability to manage how the business appears on Google Search and Google Maps. After claiming and verifying an eligible Business Profile, you can update essential details such as opening hours, contact information, website, photos, and other supported profile features.
Your business may already appear on Google even if you have never created a profile. Google can display business details from different sources, and a former owner, employee, or authorised representative may already control the listing. Claiming the existing profile helps you obtain the appropriate management access without creating an unnecessary duplicate.
This guide covers how to claim a business on Google, identify an existing profile, request ownership from another account holder, and complete verification. You will also learn about common access issues and the options available if an ownership request is declined or receives no response.
1. What Does Claiming a Business on Google Mean?
Claiming a business means establishing or requesting permission to manage its Google Business Profile. This profile contains business information that customers can find through Google Search and Google Maps. Depending on the business and supported features, it may show the business name, address, service area, phone number, website, opening hours, reviews, photos, and other relevant details.
Claiming an existing listing does not necessarily mean creating a new business entry. Instead, you request the appropriate access to manage the profile that already represents your business online.
For example, a local restaurant may already have a Google Maps listing generated from publicly available information. The restaurant owner can locate the listing and follow Google's claiming instructions if nobody has claimed it. If another person has verified the profile, the owner may need to submit an ownership request.
What can you do after claiming a profile?
- Maintain accurate business information and opening hours.
- Update your contact information and official website.
- Upload relevant photos and supported profile content.
- Manage available products, services, and business attributes.
- Reply to customer reviews through the available profile tools.
- Access supported business profile performance insights.
Available features depend on your business type, profile status, and assigned access level. Certain management functions may also have temporary restrictions for new owners.
Claiming a profile does not guarantee higher search rankings or instant visibility for every query. It allows you to manage business details and maintain a reliable presence across Google's local search platforms.
If your profile is already claimed but requires further improvements, explore our Google Business Profile optimisation service for guidance on profile accuracy and information consistency.
2. Check Whether Your Business Already Exists on Google
Before creating a Business Profile, find out whether your business already appears on Google Search or Google Maps. Checking first is essential because multiple profiles for the same business and location can create duplicate listing issues.
Search using Google Search
- Visit Google Search.
- Type your complete business name into the search bar.
- Include your city, neighbourhood, or address if the name is widely used.
- Check the results for a listing that matches your business.
- Open the relevant result and review its details.
Search using Google Maps
- Open Google Maps.
- Enter your business name and location in the search field.
- Select the result that correctly identifies your business.
- Compare its address, contact information, and other listed details.
- Check whether a claim or management option is available.
Confirm that the result belongs to your business before proceeding. Businesses with similar names may operate in the same area, so compare addresses, websites, phone numbers, and other identifying information whenever possible.
If an existing listing represents your business, follow its claiming or ownership request process. If no profile exists, create one through Google's official setup page if your business meets the eligibility requirements.
For detailed instructions, read Google's official guide to adding or claiming a Business Profile. If the listing contains inaccurate information, determine the correct ownership or correction procedure before proceeding.
3. How to Claim an Unclaimed Business on Google
If your business appears on Google but nobody has claimed its listing, you may be able to claim the profile directly. Depending on the listing and your account, Google may provide claiming options through Search or Maps.
Claim through a computer
- Open Google Maps.
- Enter your business name and city in the search bar.
- Select the correct business listing from the results.
- Find the option labelled Claim this business or a similar ownership prompt.
- Choose the available profile management option.
- Sign in to your Google account when prompted.
- Select an available verification method and complete the displayed steps.
The available labels and instructions may differ across Google's interface. If no claim option appears, another account may already manage the listing, or your current Google account may already have access.
Claim through the Google Maps mobile app
- Launch Google Maps on your mobile device.
- Search for your business and choose the matching listing.
- Review the available business details and management options.
- Find Claim this business or the corresponding option.
- Follow the displayed instructions to manage the profile.
- Complete the verification method Google makes available.
If Google requests business verification, follow the instructions using accurate business details and authentic evidence. Available methods are selected by Google, so the options shown in your account may differ from those offered to other businesses.
Once you finish the required steps, review your profile for a confirmation message or further instructions. Submitting a claim alone does not confirm that Google has approved your verification.
Businesses preparing to establish a new listing can also explore our Google Business Profile setup service for guidance on profile creation and management.
4. Claim Your Business Through Google's Setup Page
Google's Business Profile setup page provides another starting point for locating an existing listing and checking whether your business is already represented online.
- Open business.google.com/add.
- Sign in to the Google account you intend to use for business management.
- Provide your business name and address when prompted.
- Examine the matching listings suggested by Google.
- Choose the existing profile if it represents your business.
- Follow the available claiming, access request, or verification instructions.
If Google indicates that another person manages the Business Profile, avoid creating a second listing to bypass the ownership issue. Submit an access request through the official process to seek the appropriate management permissions.
If no matching listing appears, Google may let you add the business and continue with setup. First, ensure that the business meets Google's eligibility requirements and that all submitted information accurately reflects its operations.
Use a Google account that the business owner can access and maintain over time. When working with an agency or external service provider, ensure that the business retains appropriate control over its profile.
For additional guidance, visit the Google Business Profile Help Center. Businesses with multiple locations should also maintain consistent information and clear account access procedures for every eligible listing.
5. How to Request Ownership From the Current Owner
If another person has already verified your business listing, Google may require an ownership request rather than allowing you to claim the profile directly. This situation can occur when a previous owner, employee, agency, or authorised representative controls the listing.
For eligible storefront and hybrid businesses, Google's documented procedure allows an authorised person to request access to an existing profile through the Business Profile setup page.
Step-by-step ownership request
- Open Google Business Profile setup.
- Enter your business name and address.
- Choose the existing listing that matches your business.
- If another person manages it, select Request access.
- Complete the request form with correct business details.
- Submit your ownership request to Google.
- Check your inbox for confirmation and any next steps.
Google notifies the current owner, who can respond to your request. According to Google's guidance, the existing owner has three days to reply. You can review the request status by signing in to your Business Profile or following the link in your confirmation email.
What happens if the request is approved?
When the current owner approves your request, Google sends a notification and grants the access permitted by the approval.
What happens if the request is denied?
If the current owner declines your request, Google notifies you. Depending on the situation, you may be offered an appeal option or the ability to suggest an edit to the listing. Follow the available instructions.
What happens if the owner does not respond?
If the owner does not reply within three days, Google may offer an option to claim the profile and complete verification. This option is not guaranteed, so check your confirmation email or Business Profile interface for the next available steps.
Service area businesses that visit customers rather than serving them at a customer facing address may need to follow a different ownership request procedure. Google directs these businesses to contact support and select the relevant ownership transfer issue.
For the official requirements and available options, consult Google's ownership request guide.
6. Verify Your Business After Claiming It
Claiming a profile and verifying a business are connected but separate processes. Claiming or requesting access begins the process of obtaining management rights, while verification helps Google confirm that you are authorised to represent the business.
Depending on your account and listing status, Google may request verification during the claiming process or after access becomes available.
Follow the method Google provides
Verification options depend on the business and account. Google may offer video, phone, text message, email, mail, or another supported method. The available options vary, and not every business receives the same choices.
If video verification is required, follow the instructions displayed in your account. Google may request evidence of your business location, daily operations, equipment, signage, or authority to manage the business. Provide genuine evidence that satisfies the stated requirements.
If Google sends a verification code through an available method, enter it only in the official verification process. Never share your code with an unauthorised person or a third party promising to verify the profile on your behalf.
Check the final verification status
After submitting the requested information, check your profile for a confirmation message or further instructions. Verification reviews may take time, so submitting the required evidence does not necessarily mean the process is complete.
If Google declines your verification attempt, review the notification and correct the specific issue before trying again. Repeating the same submission without addressing the problem may not improve the outcome.
For additional instructions, visit Google's Business Profile verification guide. You can also explore our Google Business Profile video verification service for information about verification assistance.
7. What to Do If Someone Else Owns Your Business Profile
Finding out that another person controls your business profile can be inconvenient, especially when you are responsible for the business. However, an ownership dispute does not automatically require you to create another listing.
Begin by identifying the person or organisation managing the profile, if possible. The account holder could be a previous owner, former employee, marketing agency, or another authorised representative.
Contact the current owner when possible
If you know the person or agency responsible for the listing, ask them to grant the appropriate access to the current business owner. Explain that you need to maintain accurate information and keep the profile under the business's control.
Use Google's ownership request process
If the current owner cannot be reached or does not provide suitable access, submit an ownership request through Google's official procedure. Supply accurate business information and follow the instructions sent to your email.
Keep evidence of your authority
Google may request information to establish your connection with the business. Ensure that every detail you provide is authentic and consistent with your actual business operations.
Avoid creating a duplicate listing
Creating another profile for the same business and location can confuse customers, divide listing activity, and introduce further ownership complications. Whenever possible, resolve access issues through the existing profile.
If an agency manages the listing, the business owner should retain appropriate control. Google's guidelines require authorised representatives to obtain permission before managing a Business Profile and to transfer ownership to the business owner when requested.
For more information, review Google's ownership request instructions and its business eligibility and ownership guidelines. If your listing also requires regular updates, consider our Google Business Profile management service.
8. How to Claim a Business After the Previous Owner Leaves
Changes in business ownership can complicate Google Business Profile access when a former owner still controls the listing. This can occur after a business sale, management transition, employee departure, or the end of a marketing agreement.
If you are the legitimate new owner or an authorised manager, begin by locating the existing listing and checking which account currently controls it.
For a business that has been sold
Contact the previous owner and request a transfer of the appropriate Business Profile ownership. When both parties cooperate, a direct transfer can be more straightforward than submitting a formal ownership request.
If the former owner cannot be contacted or refuses to cooperate, use Google's ownership request process. Submit accurate information and any supporting evidence Google requests to establish your authority.
For a business managed by a former employee
If possible, contact the former employee and ask them to transfer access to the correct business account. If they are unavailable, submit an ownership request through Google instead of attempting to access their personal account.
For a business previously managed by an agency
Request that the agency transfer ownership or provide the appropriate access to the business owner. Agencies should cooperate with legitimate ownership transfer requests and ensure the business retains control of its profile.
After regaining access, review the listing and correct outdated details using the available management tools. Ensure the current owner can sign in securely and manage the profile without depending on former staff or service providers.
If the listing was disabled or suspended during the ownership change, resolve that problem separately. Transferring ownership does not automatically correct a policy violation or restore a suspended profile.
To strengthen local visibility after an ownership change, explore our local SEO services and verify that your business location and contact details remain accurate.
9. Common Problems When Claiming a Business
The claiming process can sometimes present unexpected issues. The appropriate solution depends on Google's message and whether the listing exists, has been verified, or is connected to another account.
The Claim this business button is missing
If the claim option is unavailable, your account may already have management access, or another person may have verified the listing. Sign in and check the available management controls. If someone else owns the profile, submit an ownership request.
Google says someone else manages the profile
This notification indicates that another account may control the listing. Select Request access when available and follow Google's instructions. Avoid creating a second profile to work around the existing ownership issue.
Your ownership request was denied
Review the notification and examine the next steps offered by Google. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to appeal the decision or suggest an edit. Submit accurate details and use the appropriate official procedure.
You cannot find your business
Search Google Search and Maps using your exact business name and location. If no existing profile appears, confirm your eligibility and consider creating a listing through Google's official setup page.
Verification fails after claiming
Check Google's verification instructions and review any explanation provided. Correct inaccurate details and submit genuine evidence through an available method. Contact the official Help Center if the issue continues.
You find duplicate profiles
Determine whether the listings represent the same business at the same location. Avoid claiming every matching result without checking. Follow Google's instructions for resolving duplicate listings and access conflicts.
If your business details differ across online directories, our citation building services can help you understand business listing consistency. You can also explore our business profile audit service to identify potential information and visibility issues.
10. What to Do After Claiming Your Business
Once you have claimed your profile and completed the required verification, review the listing to confirm that it reflects your actual business. Securing access is an important first step, while keeping the information accurate requires ongoing attention.
Review your business details
- Check that your business name matches its real world name.
- Confirm the most relevant primary business category.
- Review the address or service area configuration.
- Verify your phone number and official website.
- Update opening hours and applicable holiday schedules.
- Check services and other useful business information.
Add genuine photographs
Upload relevant photos of your actual premises, products, staff, or completed projects. Authentic images help potential customers understand what your business offers before deciding to get in touch.
Respond to customer reviews
Read customer feedback and provide thoughtful, professional replies. Thank customers for sharing their experiences and address complaints respectfully. Avoid buying reviews, rewarding customers for positive ratings, or sharing confidential customer details in public responses.
Maintain account security
Ensure the business owner retains profile access and that every authorised user has suitable permissions. Use Google's owner and manager settings instead of sharing login credentials. Review and update access whenever staff members or service providers leave.
Improve your local online presence
Once the profile is claimed, focus on consistent business information, useful website content, customer service, and a trustworthy online presence. These efforts can support local visibility, although no specific search ranking is guaranteed.
For further guidance, explore our Google Business Profile optimisation resources and Google Business Profile ranking services.
11. Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming a Business
Using Google's official claiming process helps reduce access disputes, duplicate listings, and avoidable account problems. Keep these common mistakes in mind when claiming your Business Profile.
Creating a duplicate instead of claiming an existing profile
Search for your business before setting up another listing. If an eligible profile already represents your business, follow the appropriate claiming or ownership request procedure.
Claiming a business without permission
Claim or manage a listing only if you own the business or have proper authorisation. Never attempt to obtain control of another company's profile without legitimate permission.
Using inaccurate business information
Enter the genuine business name, correct location information, and valid contact details. Do not use an unrelated address or insert extra keywords into the business name to manipulate search rankings.
Sharing passwords or verification codes
Protect your login details and verification codes. Give employees and agencies access through Google's official ownership and permission settings rather than sharing account credentials.
Ignoring ownership request emails
Check the email account used for your request. Google's notifications provide updates that help you determine whether the request was approved, declined, or requires further action.
Expecting instant ranking improvements
Claiming your profile provides management access but does not promise first page placement or immediate visibility for every search. Prioritise accurate information, a positive customer experience, and consistent local SEO improvements.
If your business operates across several locations, review each eligible profile and follow a reliable process for maintaining accurate details. Explore our local SEO services for small businesses for additional guidance on improving visibility across your service areas.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I claim my business listing on Google?
Find your business on Google Search or Maps, or visit Google Business Profile setup. Choose the correct listing and complete the displayed claiming and verification steps. If another account controls the profile, submit an ownership request through Google's official process.
2. Does Google charge a fee to claim a business profile?
No. Creating or claiming an eligible Google Business Profile is free. Avoid providers who claim that a payment to Google is required for basic ownership or guarantee specific rankings. Independent service providers may charge for optional profile assistance and optimisation.
3. How can I get access to a profile owned by someone else?
Choose Google's Request access option when available and provide the requested business information. Monitor your email for status updates. If the current owner declines or fails to respond, review the next steps Google makes available for your situation.
4. How many days does a Google profile ownership request take?
Google gives the existing profile owner three days to respond to an ownership request. If they do not respond, an option to claim the listing may become available, depending on the circumstances. Check your confirmation email for instructions and updates.
5. Is it possible to claim a business listing using Google Maps?
Yes. Find your business in Google Maps, open its listing, and check for Claim this business or another available management option. Follow the on-screen directions and complete the verification process Google provides for your business.
6. Why is the option to claim my Google listing unavailable?
Your account may already manage the listing, or another user may have verified it. Sign in to the correct Google account and review the available controls. If another person holds ownership, request access through Google rather than adding a duplicate profile.
7. How do I take ownership of a Google profile after purchasing a business?
Ask the previous owner to transfer the appropriate profile permissions to you. If they cannot assist, submit an ownership request through Google's official process and provide the required details. Resolve any separate suspension or policy concerns through the relevant process.
8. Is verification required when claiming a Google Business Profile?
Google may require verification during or after the claiming process. Complete the method displayed in your account and wait for Google's decision. Receiving access or submitting verification details does not necessarily mean the profile has completed every required step.
9. Can an employee or marketing agency claim a business profile?
An employee, agency, or other representative may manage a profile when authorised by the business owner. Anyone handling the listing should follow Google's representative guidelines, obtain the necessary permission, and ensure the business retains appropriate ownership and control.
10. Which details should I review after claiming my Google listing?
Check your business name, category, address or service area, contact number, website, and operating hours. Upload authentic business photos, respond thoughtfully to customer feedback, and review account permissions to keep profile management secure and accurate.
Disclaimer: Google may update its Business Profile interface, ownership process, and verification options. Always follow the current instructions in your account and refer to official Google documentation for the latest requirements.
Final Thoughts
Claiming your business on Google helps you establish control over the information customers see online. Begin by locating the existing listing, checking its details, and choosing the correct ownership or claiming option for your situation.
For an unclaimed listing, follow Google's instructions to establish access and complete verification. When another account manages the profile, request ownership through the official process instead of creating a duplicate. If a former employee or agency controls it, use the appropriate access procedure to restore legitimate business control.
After gaining access, keep your listing aligned with your current business operations. Correct contact information, authentic images, helpful customer responses, and a relevant website can improve the experience for people discovering your business through Google Search and Maps.
For additional assistance, explore our verified business listing service, video verification support, and business listing management services. If your profile has been suspended, our Google Business Profile suspension recovery resource explains available recovery options.