Claim and request ownership

Overview

Before you jump in and create a new profile, it’s important to check if Google has already created one for your business. This can happen automatically based on online reviews, customer activity, map searches, or even data pulled from other business directories.

Tip: If you create a new profile without checking first, you risk having duplicate listings which can confuse customers, split reviews, and hurt your local search performance. The good news? If you accidentally create a duplicate, you can report the other listing to Google for removal or consolidation. Just make sure you’re managing the correct profile with the most accurate and complete information.

Why claiming your GBP matters

Your GBP is more than just a pin on Google Maps. It’s what customers see when they search for your business, check your reviews, or look for your operating hours. By claiming it, you:

Ensure your information is accurate.
Get control over photos, reviews, and posts.
Access insights and analytics.
Prevent others from misrepresenting your brand.

Let’s look at two main paths to get control of your profile

Option 1: Claim a business profile (If the profile hasn’t been claimed yet)

1. Open Google Maps.
2. In the search bar, type your business name.
3. Click on the correct business name from the search results.
6. Click Claim this business and then Manage now.
5. To select a different business, click I own or manage another business.
6. Choose a verification option and follow the on-screen steps.

Once verified, you’ll see a badge that says “You manage this profile.” With that, you’re in!

Option 1: Claim a business profile (If the profile hasn’t been claimed yet)

1. Go to business.google.com/add.
2. Enter the business name and address.
3. Select the correct business from the search results.
4. Click Request Access.
5. You’ll see a message saying “Someone else may manage this Business Profile.”
6. If you're authorized to manage it, fill out the form and click Submit.

Google then emails the current profile owner. They have three days to respond.

Note: If you're trying to request ownership of a service-area business (one that doesn’t serve customers at a physical location), you’ll need to contact Google directly and select Transfer ownership of listing in the support form.

What happens next?

After submitting your request:

If approved, you’ll be notified by email and get access after a short wait.
If denied, you can appeal or try contacting the current owner directly.
If no one responds in three days, Google may give you a chance to verify and claim the profile yourself.

A quick note on the seven-day waiting period

Once you become the new owner or manager, some features stay locked for the first seven days. For example, you can’t:

Delete or undelete the profile
Remove other owners or managers
Transfer primary ownership

If you accidentally delete your account within this window, you’ll lose access and need to be re-added.

Taking control of your GBP is one of the easiest wins in local SEO. It sets the stage for accurate information, better visibility, and improved trust with your customers. Whether you’re claiming an unverified listing or navigating the request process, don’t skip this step—it’s the foundation of your online presence.