How to Get Reinstated After a Google My Business Suspension

Google My Business (GMB) profiles are pivotal to local business SEO for several key reasons. Firstly, GMB enhances visibility in local search results, enabling businesses to appear prominently when potential customers search for relevant services or products in their area. This visibility is crucial as it directly connects businesses with local consumers actively seeking their offerings.

Secondly, GMB profiles contribute to credibility and trust. A well-maintained profile with accurate information, positive reviews, and high-quality images assures potential customers of the business's legitimacy and quality. This can significantly influence their decision-making process, leading to increased traffic and sales.

Additionally, GMB profiles improve engagement by providing essential business information at a glance, such as operating hours, contact details, and directions. Features like posts, Q&A, and review responses allow businesses to interact directly with their audience, fostering a stronger customer relationship and enhancing the overall customer experience.

Finally, the data and insights gained from GMB analytics help businesses understand customer behavior, preferences, and trends, enabling them to refine their marketing strategies effectively. By leveraging these insights, businesses can optimize their online presence and improve their local SEO performance.

If you have a suspended profile it is important to get it reinstated.

To get your Google My Business (GMB) listing reinstated so you can post again, you need to follow these steps:



1. Identify why the listing was suspended and address any violations or inaccuracies in your business profile.

Unfortunately, it looks like you violated Google's content policy. 

Common reasons include:

• Creating multiple listings for the exact business location
• Including keywords or location names in the business name that aren't part of the official business name.
• Content that includes phone number (you can attach a "Call now" button to your post that uses your verified Business Profile phone number)
• Using images, videos, or content that you do not have the rights to use.
• Engaging in spam-like practices or using prohibited content
• Posting offensive, irrelevant, or inappropriate content
• Violations of GMB policies >> https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038177
• Incorrect business information
• Breaching privacy or confidentiality agreements
• Making unauthorised changes to the business name, address, or other critical details
• And more.



2. Check Your Email

Google usually sends an email about the suspension. They may not specify what that is so you'll need to review the guidelines.



3. Review GMB Guidelines

Go through the Google My Business guidelines to ensure your business complies with all rules.

1. Please make sure that all the information on your GMB listing is accurate and up-to-date, including the business name, address, phone number, and website.

2. Prepare documents that verify your business information, such as a business licence, utility bill, or lease agreement.

a. Official business registration

b. A business license

c. Tax certificates

d. Utility bills for the business such as:

e. Electricity

f. Phone

g. Water

h. Internet



4. Apply for Reinstatement Appeal

Here’s the direct link on how to Appeal Business Profile content and profile restrictions.

On the reinstatement request form, be concise and clear about the information you provide. If any mistakes led to the suspension, acknowledge them and explain how you have corrected them.

Businesses have 60 minutes to provide proof of legitimacy upon starting the reinstatement process.

Don’t forget to check your profile’s verification status before you submit an appeal.

Submit your appeal

1. Google's email contains a link to the specific section of the current guidelines. Businesses have only one opportunity to apply for reinstatement. Or you may open the Google Business Profile appeals tool. Make sure you're signed in to the Google Account related to your Business Profile.



2. Select the Business Profile that you want to reinstate.

The Google Business Profile appeals tool shows:

• The restricted profile
• The reason for the moderation action
• A link to the violated policy
  

3. Start the appeal process as soon as possible. The appeal process includes a strict 60-minute window to gather and submit necessary evidence.

4. You may be prompted to add optional evidence to support your appeal.

To add evidence, attach files that clearly support your appeal and select Submit.

5. After submitting the form, it may take several days or weeks for Google to review your request. Check your email regularly for updates. If you don’t hear back within a reasonable time, follow up with Google Support for an update on your request.



How to Avoid Restrictions

• Adhere to Google’s guidelines and stay informed on policy changes
• Use original, high-quality images
• Verify formatting specifications for visual content
• Create unique content that isn’t repetitive
• Avoid sensitive words or images
• Do not add URLs or phone numbers to posts
• Always review content for potential conflicts of interest



In summary, Google My Business profiles are indispensable for local business SEO, driving visibility, credibility, engagement, and actionable insights, all of which contribute to attracting and retaining local customers.