We are not currently accepting new clients to assist with the Google Ads verification process. We understand the frustration that many of our readers are experiencing while navigating this process. Unfortunately, this along with many other updates to Google’s product offerings comes at a time when Google has chosen to lay off 12,000 workers and replace them with low-paid, outsourced workers. This has created an environment where policy decisions feel arbitrary and capricious, and we are unable to advise the next best step for accounts caught in the crossfire.
Advertising is a crucial aspect of promoting and marketing a business. The internet and ppc marketing has opened up a world of opportunities for companies to reach a wider audience, but with that comes the need for greater transparency and trust in online advertising.
To address this, Google has come up with a solution – the Advertiser Verification Program. In simple terms, this program helps make sure that the information provided by advertisers on Google’s platform is accurate and authentic.
This is important because it helps to promote trust and transparency in the online advertising industry. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what the Advertiser Verification Program is all about and why Google created it.
How does the Google Ads Advertiser Verification Process Work?
The Advertiser Verification Program works by requiring advertisers to provide detailed information about their business and advertising practices. This information is then reviewed and verified by Google to ensure that it is accurate and complies with Google’s policies and standards. The verification process typically requires the business to provide basic information about their business and identity.
You may be required to provide answers to the following questions about your business:
- Whether your business is an advertising agency
- Who pays for your ads
- Whether you advertise your own products/services or someone else’s
- Your industry (or industries)
Once you complete the “about your business” section of questions, Google may ask a few more verification questions including:
- Verifying your identity or legal business name. This information will be used to generate a disclosure on any ads you run.
- Verifying your business operations
How Do I Know If I Need to Complete the Verification Process?
Recently, Google has begun prompting certain users to complete the Verification Process when logging into their account. If you have received this notification, you have 30 days to begin and complete the advertiser verification process.
Keep in mind that this is a rapidly evolving process, and Google may make changes or updates to this policy. Currently Google is only requiring accounts who have received a notification to complete the process. If you have not received the verification notification, it doesn’t hurt to get ahead of the process and begin working to get verified.
To review your verification status and determine if you need to complete the verification process, you can follow these steps:
- Log in to your Google Ads account.
- Go to the “Settings” tab in your account.
- Look for the “Advertiser verification” section.
- Check the status of your verification. If it is “Not verified,” you will need to complete the verification process.
If you are new to Google Ads, you may be prompted to complete the verification process as part of the initial setup process. Additionally, if you have made changes to your business information or advertising practices, you may be required to complete the verification process again to ensure that your information is up-to-date and accurate.
Note that completing the Advertiser Verification Program is a requirement for advertising on the Google platform, and failure to complete the verification process may result in restrictions on your ability to display ads or access certain features and tools.
I Have a Google Ad Grant Account – Does it Require Verification?
Yes, Google Ad Grant accounts require verification. If you are managing a Google Ad Grant account, which is part of Google’s program for nonprofit organizations, you are also required to go through the Advertiser Verification Process.
This process helps ensure transparency and trust in the online advertising ecosystem, regardless of whether you’re a for-profit business or a nonprofit organization. By completing the verification process, Google Ad Grant account holders can continue to benefit from the grant while adhering to Google’s advertising policies and maintaining the platform’s integrity.
What Happens If I Don’t Complete the Advertiser Verification Process?
Google give’s advertisers 30 days to comply with the advertiser verification and successfully complete the process. Once you start the verification process, you will be given 30 days to complete this verification and all other requested verifications (if required or applicable as per Google’s advertising verification policies)
Failure to complete or meet the verification requirements of this process within 30 days will result in an immediate account pause. Keep in mind that Google’s verification process is an attempt to increase transparency in advertising. Ultimately all advertisers will be required to complete verification in order to advertise their products or services on Google ads.
What Does Google Do With My Information Once I’m Verified?
Google utilizes the information provided during the Advertiser Verification Program in the following ways:
- Verify Identity and Business Operations: Google uses the information to verify the identity of the advertiser and/or the operations of their business.
- Ad Disclosures: Google will show a disclosure on the ads, linking back to the advertiser’s name or the name of the business they represent, along with their location.
- Advertiser Transparency: As part of Google’s efforts to increase transparency, information about an advertiser’s Google Ads accounts and ad campaigns will be made publicly available. This information may include: advertiser name change history, ad creatives, dates and locations where ads were served, and ads that were removed or accounts that were suspended for legal or policy reasons. Business contact information will be published, while personal contact information such as phone numbers or email addresses will remain confidential.
How Can I Stay Up to Date With Changes to the Advertiser Verification Process?
It’s important to keep in mind that the Advertiser Verification Process and its requirements may evolve over time. Google constantly works to improve its platform and policies, and this may lead to updates or changes in the verification process. As an advertiser, staying informed about these changes is essential to ensure continued compliance with Google’s policies and maintain your account’s good standing.
To stay up-to-date with any changes in the verification process, we recommend regularly checking Google’s official resources, including the Google Ads Help Center, and keeping an eye on announcements from Google. This proactive approach will help you stay ahead of any updates or new requirements, ensuring a seamless advertising experience on the platform.
By staying informed and adapting to changes in the Advertiser Verification Process, you can safeguard your advertising efforts and continue to reach your target audience effectively through Google Ads.
Do I Need to Hire an Ads Agency to Get My Business Verified?
The process for getting your business verified is pretty straightforward. Many business owners will be able to complete the verification on their own without the need to hire a professional.
If you are not comfortable navigating the Google Ads platform or already work with web design or Google Ads PPC Agency, you may find it easier to work with them to complete the process.
Need help navigating the Google Ads Advertiser Verification Program? Contact us now for a free account review
