A Google Business Profile (GBP) is essential for most businesses in 2026. But what happens if you lose access to yours?
Although there are a few ways you can run into trouble with your Google Business Profile, a suspension can feel like one of the most daunting problems to approach.
Today, we’ll look into what a Google Business Profile suspension looks like, how to fix your suspended Google Business Profile, and finally what it takes to get your account reinstated.
What Is a Google Business Profile Suspension?
A Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business) is a free tool from Google that lets business owners reach customers on Google Maps and Google Search.
So what does it really mean for your account to be suspended?
Usually, a GBP or GMB suspension simply means your listing is no longer under your control, and its validity is under inspection. Google will also email you with a notice of your suspension,
This sounds simple enough, but there are ultimately a few reasons why this issue may occur. First, you’ll need to identify which reason applies to you.
5 Top Common Reasons for Google Business Profile Suspensions
Google explains that an account may be flagged for a variety of reasons.
These may not always seem like a big deal on the surface, but all can trigger a potential response from Google’s system.
Reasons that your GBP account may be suspended include:
- Using a virtual office or P.O. box instead of a physical address.
- Changing your business name or identity, or other key details.
- Stuffing keywords in your business name instead of providing the singular, accurate name.
- Long periods of inactivity on your account.
- Having duplicate listings for one business or location.
Check all of this information on your account and cross-reference it with Google’s GBP guidelines. You may be able to notice which suspension reasons are most relevant to you.
How to Identify the Type of Suspension
Google Business Profile suspensions can usually be split into one of two categories:
The first is a soft suspension, which means your listing still appears in Google Maps and Google Search. However, you can’t manage or edit your listing until your account is reinstated.
The second type is a hard suspension. In this case, your listing is no longer visible to users in Search or Maps, and customers won’t be able to find you even when they look up your business name directly.
Either way, you’ll need to take steps to reinstate the GBP account. But knowing what kind of suspension you have can help before you take them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Suspended Profile
The good news about GBP suspensions is that we can always follow a clear set of steps to get your account back on track.
1. Check Your Email
You should have an email from Google that provides a general reason for your suspension and a support article. Always start here.
2. Review The GBP Guidelines
If you haven’t already, now is a good time to go over the Google Business Profile guidelines we mentioned earlier. If you don’t know why your account was suspended, it’ll be harder to submit an appeal to fix it.
3. How to Submit a Reinstatement Request to Google
At this point, you can submit an appeal to Google using their GBP appeals tool.
You’ll may be asked to provide your business details, including:
- Business licenses
- Tax certificates
- Utility bills
- Official business registration
- Any other proof of real-world business presence
Make sure you’re ready to give this information accurately and clearly to Google’s system. Uploading as many documents as possible also improves your chances of success.
4. Follow-Up With Google
You may now be wondering: how long will it take for Google to handle my suspension appeal?
The answer, unfortunately, varies from person to person. You may hear back about the status of your suspension appeal anywhere between 1-3 weeks.
However, if you have still not heard back from Google by that time, you can always reach out to Google Support for a follow-up on your request.
Otherwise, simply remain patient and check your email for updates.
Preventing Future Suspensions: Best Practices
Ultimately, the best way to keep your GBP safe for the future is to follow Google’s guidelines and keep your business information up to date.
This means following key advice like:
- Double-check your business details regularly.
- Never try to game the system by listing multiple times.
- Refresh your online business presence with new photos and accurate information.
In other words, there are no shortcuts to success with Google Business Profile. It may not be fun advice, but it’s necessary to take it seriously!
Just stay honest with the system, remain present and active, and pay attention to the provided rules.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Business Profile Safe
With the advent of online tools like Google Business Profile at our disposal, these powerful platforms can make or break your business’s success.
Although this can be a game-changing move for businesses that just want to get their name out on the internet, it also means a new set of rules and regulations to follow.
Stay alert and aware of Google’s guidelines and best practices, and you’ll be able to keep your Google Business Profile safe from suspension and available to all your potential customers.