Top 7 Reasons Your Google Business Profile Got Suspended—and How to Fix It
If your Google Business Profile (GBP) has been suspended, it can seriously impact your local visibility and lead flow. Suspension means your listing will no longer appear in search results or on Google Maps, which can hurt customer trust and organic traffic. Below, we’ll explore the seven most common reasons for suspension and how to resolve each issue.
1. Address Violations or Virtual Offices
Google requires businesses to list a valid physical address. Using a PO box, co-working space, or virtual office often leads to suspension. To resolve this issue, use a genuine, verifiable address and refrain from using shared workspaces unless you have clear signage and staff available during business hours. Ensuring your address is accurate helps maintain your listing's visibility and credibility, preventing potential account issues or removal.
2. Multiple Listings for the Same Business
Creating multiple listings for the exact business location is a violation of Google's guidelines. Even slight differences in name or address can trigger a suspension. Remove or merge duplicate listings, and only maintain one active profile per location to stay compliant. Ensuring accurate, consistent information helps avoid penalties and improves your local ranking on Google.
3. Keyword Stuffing in Business Name
Adding services, city names, or keywords to your business name that aren’t part of your legal name can cause suspension. Correct your business name to match your registered or “doing business as” (DBA) name to restore your profile. For example, including 'New York' or 'Dry Cleaning' in 'ABC Cleaners' may lead to suspension. Ensure your name complies with platform policies by keeping it accurate and consistent with official documents. This avoids account issues and supports customer trust.
4. Ineligible Business Types
Some businesses, such as online-only stores or rental properties, are not eligible for a Google Business Profile. If your business operates virtually or doesn’t serve customers in person, your profile may be removed. To resolve this, only create a listing if your business meets the qualification criteria.
5. Violation of Google’s Content Guidelines
Profiles with prohibited content, including spammy or misleading descriptions, fake reviews, or incorrect categories, are at risk. Regularly audit your listing and ensure that your content aligns with Google's official policies.
6. Changes Made Too Frequently or Suspicious Activity
Making rapid changes to your business name, category, address, or phone number may trigger a review of your profile for potential suspension. If you've recently made several edits, wait a few days between updates and verify them through your Google account.
7. Third-Party Spam or Misuse
Granting access to unverified marketing agencies or unknown users can put your listing at risk. Unauthorized edits, fake reviews, or incorrect service areas often lead to suspensions. Limit access to trusted team members and regularly monitor user roles.
Regain Your Google Business Profile and Your Visibility
A suspended GBP can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with the proper steps. Begin by identifying the violation, correcting the issue, and submitting a reinstatement request through Google’s support page. Ensure that all details—name, address, and contact information—are consistent across your website and business documents. If you're unsure why your listing was suspended or need expert assistance in recovering it, Bright Beans Digital in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is here to help. With over 12 years of experience in Google Business Profile management and reinstatement, we know what it takes to get your listing back on track. Contact us today for professional support and get your business back on track!