How to Recover a Suspended Google Business Profile

Introduction

• Presenter: Luke Duran, founder of Ranking Academy
• Purpose: Guide on recovering a suspended Google Business Profile
• Channel: Ranking Academy, dedicated to local marketing
• Community: Over 260,000 subscribers

Consequences of Suspension

• Listing not found on Google Maps or Google search results
• Unable to make changes to the profile

Initial Advice

• Do not claim another listing at the same address (violates Google’s guidelines)
• Appeal Google’s decision instead

Step 1: Identify and Fix Issues

Common Reasons for Suspension

1. Keywords in Business Name: Remove extra keywords; use the name on the business license
2. Invalid Address: PO Box, UPS Box, or virtual office addresses are not allowed; use a real address
3. Service Area Businesses Showing Address: Remove the address; specify service areas instead
4. Frequent Changes: Avoid making many changes at once; Google gets suspicious
5. Online-Only Businesses: Not eligible for a Google Business Profile
6. Incorrect Operating Hours: Ensure hours are accurate; incorrect 24-hour claims can lead to suspension
7. Website Link Issues: Use actual business website; avoid redirects or social media links
8. High-Risk Business Types: Constant monitoring for categories like locksmiths, plumbers, etc.
9. Switching Business Types: Changing from service area to storefront or vice versa can trigger suspension
10. Multiple Listings: Prove each listing is for a separate service area; avoid overlap
11. Same Address Listings: Avoid multiple listings at the same address unless location is an office building or mall
12. Managed by Suspended Accounts: Remove access for suspended accounts

Prohibited and Restricted Content

• Review Google’s list for compliance

Step 2: Launch the Appeal

Preparation

• Gather official business documents: registration, license, tax certificates, utility bills
• Ensure documents display the business name and address clearly
• Add external signage photo if applicable
• Organize documents into a zip file

Appeal Process

1. Find the Suspension Email: Click on the appeal button
2. Verify Email Address: Ensure it matches the suspended listing
3. Select Listing: Choose the listing to appeal
4. Review Listing: Check suspension details and eligibility for appeal
5. Submit Evidence: Upload documents proving business legitimacy
6. Additional Information: Use the field to explain compliance and provide relevant details
7. Submit Appeal: Click submit, starts 60-minute countdown
8. Await Decision: Monitor status and wait for Google support review

After Appeal

• If successful, listing may take a few days to regain ranking
• If declined, one last review can be requested
• Fix issues and resubmit correct documents for the final attempt

Conclusion

• Best of luck with the appeal
• Links and resources in the video description
• Optimize the listing post-reinstatement
• Suggested resource: List of 50 tips for optimization