If you're looking to advertise on Google, verifying your identity and business is an essential step. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire Google Ads verification process, common issues to avoid and the benefits of completing verification.
What Is Google Ads Verification?
Google Ads verification is a mandatory process for advertisers to validate their identity or business. This step is required to enhance the trust of users who engage with ads and ensure compliance with Google’s transparency policies.
There are two main types of verification:
- Identity Verification: Applicable for individuals or sole proprietors.
- Business Verification: Required for businesses, which includes submitting documentation to prove your company’s legitimacy
The Steps to Completing the Google Ads Verification Process
When your company has a Google ads account, Google will prompt you via email to complete a one-time verification process. This process is meant to provide users with transparency around who is advertising to them via the Google Ads platform. After completing the verification, your business will be listed in the Google Ads Transparency Center.
Once prompted by Google, you have 30 days to begin the process of verification, and another 30 days to complete the process after it has been started.
Steps:
1. Log into your Google Ads Account
2. In the left-hand menu, click “Billing” then “Advertiser Verification”.
3. Google will then ask you for one organization registration document and one government-issued photo ID of the person submitting the verification. The most up-to-date list of accepted documents can be found here.
4. Follow Google’s prompts to submit these documents to Google Ads. Submitting photos of these documents uploaded from your cell phone is accepted and typically the easiest method of submitting these to Google.
5. Google typically accepts or denies your verification within minutes of submitting your documents. An email from Google will confirm or deny your submission.
If you are uncomfortable submitting personal photo IDs to Google, reach out to your Account Manager who will work with a PIC specialist to submit your organizational documents without your personal ID.
How Long Does Google Ads Verification Take?
The Google Ads verification process usually takes up to 30 days.
Here's a breakdown:
- Identity verification:
Advertisers have 30 days to start the process after receiving the in-account notification. Once initiated, verification typically takes hours to several days for document review. - Business verification:
Depending on your industry and business size, this could take up to 30 days.
If the verification process is incomplete or incorrect documents are submitted, expect delays or potential account pauses.
Avoiding Common Google Ads Verification Issues
Verification delays are often caused by incomplete or incorrect information. Here are some common issues to avoid:
- Submitting expired or incorrect documents.
- Failing to provide all necessary details, such as a valid business address or matching tax information.
- Using inconsistent names across your Google account and documents.
Double-check everything before submitting to prevent delays and ensure a smooth verification process.
Benefits of Completing Google Ads Verification
Successfully completing the verification process not only allows your ads to run smoothly but also unlocks several benefits:
- Increased Transparency:
Verified advertisers have their business information displayed in Google’s Ads Transparency Center which builds user trust. - Improved Ad Performance:
Verified businesses can display their business name and logo prominently on ads. This can help improve click-through rates and brand recognition. - Priority Support:
Verified advertisers receive priority support from Google, allowing faster resolution of ad disapprovals or account issues.
