> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.bukkii.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.bukkii.io/blog/how-to/how-to-claim-or-reclaim-your-business-on-google-step-by-step-guide.md).

# How to Claim or Reclaim Your Business on Google (Step-by-Step Guide)

If your business already appears on Google Maps or Google Search, but you don’t own the profile, you can request ownership.

<figure><img src="https://1985835472-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6xxZ2ODkd9oloqfGObha%2Fuploads%2FBZD7DZQ34AAnnnpEqXtX%2Fre-claim%20your%20google.png?alt=media&amp;token=6c2154a8-a99d-41f4-92da-1145a5479fb0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
Sometimes your business is already showing up on **Google Search** or **Google Maps**, but you don’t have access to manage it. Don’t worry — you can easily **claim or reclaim** your Google Business Profile and take control.
{% endhint %}

### Why Claim Your Google Business Profile?

* Update your contact info, hours, and photos.
* Respond to reviews.
* Post updates, offers, and events.
* Make sure customers see the right information.

***

### Step-by-Step: Claiming Your Business Profile

#### 1. Sign In

Go to [business.google.com](https://www.google.com/business/) and sign in with your Google account.

<figure><img src="https://1985835472-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6xxZ2ODkd9oloqfGObha%2Fuploads%2FGmoIGwIvcYo5nY5clTY5%2FIMG_1302.PNG?alt=media&amp;token=a3ca1c79-e391-49d5-b322-9f403d73c476" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

#### 2. Enter Business info

Type your "Business name + Zipcode"

<figure><img src="https://1985835472-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6xxZ2ODkd9oloqfGObha%2Fuploads%2FWhxSvVfRkdsUHbxzCM0u%2FScreenshot%202025-08-18%20at%204.41.25%E2%80%AFAM.png?alt=media&amp;token=4537abe4-adf6-47be-9516-c0c6a9b178da" alt=""><figcaption><p>Check the business name and address, then select.</p></figcaption></figure>

***

#### 4. Request Access

* If no one manages the profile → you’ll be guided to set it up.
* If someone already claimed it → you’ll see: *“”Someone else may manage this Business Profile"*
  * Click **Request Access**
  * Select the access level: **Ownership**
  * Relationship: **Owner**
  * Your name
  * Your phone number
  * Click **Submit**

<div><figure><img src="https://1985835472-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6xxZ2ODkd9oloqfGObha%2Fuploads%2FsdxEjkIZsXOCj3J8k2le%2FScreenshot%202025-08-18%20at%204.44.39%E2%80%AFAM.png?alt=media&amp;token=c52700ff-81b2-4434-b8e0-ac35dd408d45" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://1985835472-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F6xxZ2ODkd9oloqfGObha%2Fuploads%2FYcJ77L4IXPneIWyWj3Rm%2FScreenshot%202025-08-18%20at%204.45.54%E2%80%AFAM.png?alt=media&amp;token=d2149931-8eb2-41fc-bcbe-ba1a92985608" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

***

#### 5. Wait for a Response

* The current profile owner has **7 days** to respond.
* If they **approve** → you’ll get access.
* If they **deny** → you can appeal to Google with proof you own the business.
* If there’s **no response** → you may get ownership automatically after 7 days.

***

#### 6. Verify Your Business

Even after gaining access, Google may still ask you to verify using:

* Phone
* Email
* Video verification
* Postcard mailed to your address

***

### Tips for a Smooth Claim

* Don’t create a duplicate profile — it can confuse customers.
* Have proof ready (business license, utility bills, photos of signage, lease agreement).
* If an old owner controls the profile, ask them to transfer ownership.
* If you get stuck, use **Google Business Support** or contact Bukkii Team to get help.

***

### Final Thoughts

Claiming your Google Business Profile ensures you control how your business appears online. Once you have access, you can update details, post photos, and engage with customers — giving your business the visibility and trust it deserves.

Take a few minutes today to reclaim your profile and put your business back in your hands.