So, you’ve set up your Google My Business (GMB) listing. You’re ready to show up in search results. But there’s one problem.
It’s stuck in processing.
Frustrating, right? You expected a quick approval. Maybe a few hours or days. But it’s been weeks, and nothing.
What’s going on? And more importantly, how can you speed things up?
Let’s break it down.
How Long Does Google My Business Processing Take?
In most cases, Google processes new GMB listings within:
- 24-48 hours if everything looks good
- Up to 7 days if Google needs to review details
- Several weeks or months if there are issues
Yes, you read that right. Some businesses wait months before their listing is approved.
The good news? You can avoid long delays by knowing why this happens.
Why Your GMB Listing Is Stuck in Processing
Google doesn’t tell you exactly why your listing is delayed. But here are the most common reasons.
You’re Stuck in the Verification Process
Most businesses need to verify their address before showing up on Google. This usually happens in one of three ways.
- Postcard verification takes five to fourteen days to arrive
- Phone verification is instant, but not available for all businesses
- Video verification requires a live tour of your business
The problem?
Sometimes, that postcard never arrives. Or the verification request gets stuck in Google’s system.
What to do?
- Wait at least fourteen days before requesting a new postcard
- Check your business address for typos
- If possible, try phone or video verification instead
Google Thinks Your Listing Looks Suspicious
Google doesn’t like spammy business listings. If your profile raises red flags, they’ll put it under manual review.
Common reasons:
- You have multiple GMB listings for the same business
- Your business address is a virtual office, PO Box, or home
- Your business name has too many keywords
For example, if your official name is “Mike’s Plumbing,” but your GMB name is “Best Emergency 24/7 Affordable Plumbing in Texas,” Google might reject it.
What to do?
- Use your real business name without extra keywords
- Make sure your address is real and accurate
- If you already have a listing, don’t create a new one
Your Business Category Needs Extra Review
Some businesses face stricter checks than others. Google wants to prevent fraud in high-risk industries.
Examples of businesses that take longer to process:
- Law firms and financial services
- Locksmiths and home repair services
- Real estate agencies
If you’re in one of these industries, expect some extra waiting time.
What to do?
- Be patient and follow Google’s guidelines
- Make sure your address, phone, and website match everywhere online
Google’s System Is Backed Up
Sometimes, it’s not you. It’s Google.
They update their systems. They get overloaded with requests. And when that happens, even legit businesses get stuck in processing.
What to do?
- Check Google’s Help Center for any updates
- Wait it out, even though it’s frustrating
Your Listing Violates Google’s Rules
If you’re doing anything against Google’s policies, your listing won’t go live.
Things that can get your listing delayed or even suspended:
- Using a fake or shared address
- Stuffing keywords into your business name
- Creating multiple listings for one business
What to do?
- Read Google’s guidelines and follow them
- Fix any violations before re-submitting your listing
How to Speed Up Google My Business Processing
Still waiting? Here’s how to get your listing approved faster.
Contact Google Support
If fourteen days have passed, reach out to Google.
Here’s how:
- Go to Google My Business Help Center
- Click on “Contact Support”
- Choose the issue and submit a request
Google will review your case manually and hopefully speed things up.
Don’t Keep Editing Your Listing
Every time you edit your listing while it’s under review, Google restarts the process.
Avoid:
- Changing your business name
- Editing your address or phone number
- Switching your business category
Instead, set everything up correctly the first time. Then wait.
Complete Your Profile 100 Percent
Google prioritizes fully completed listings.
Make sure you’ve added:
- Business name, address, phone number
- Business hours and categories
- High-quality photos of your storefront, team, and products
- A real business website if you have one
A complete listing builds trust with Google and speeds up approval.
Why Your Google My Business Listing Matters
Your Google My Business listing is more than just an online profile. It’s the number one way local customers find you.
Without a verified listing, you’re missing out on:
- Free exposure in Google Search and Maps
- More phone calls and website visits
- Customer reviews and trust signals
A delayed GMB listing means lost business.
Want Your GMB Listing Approved Faster? Let Us Handle It
If your GMB listing is stuck in processing, don’t waste weeks or months waiting. Let an expert handle it for you.
At SEOForBusinessGrowth, we help businesses:
- Get verified faster without endless waiting
- Fix listing issues and avoid Google’s common mistakes
- Rank higher in local search to get more calls and customers
We’ve helped hundreds of local businesses get their GMB listings approved and optimized. Let’s do the same for you.
Need help? Contact SEOForBusinessGrowth.com today.
Final Thoughts
Google My Business delays happen, but you don’t have to wait forever.
To speed things up:
- Complete your profile 100 percent
- Avoid frequent edits
- Follow Google’s rules
- Contact support if you’re stuck
Or let SEOForBusinessGrowth handle it. Get your listing live, verified, and ranking fast.
Don’t let a delay keep customers from finding you. Take action today.
