How to Gain Ownership and Claim a Google Business Profile (GBP) That You Don’t Manage

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Managing a Google Business Profile (GBP) is essential for ensuring your business appears accurately in Google Search and Maps. But what happens when you don’t manage the GBP for your own business? Maybe a former employee set it up, or it was claimed under an old email account. Perhaps you need ownership in a different Google account to link your Google Ads and enable location extensions. Or maybe a third-party agency managed it, and now you need direct control. Whatever the case, regaining access is crucial. Follow these step-by-step instructions to claim a GBP that you don’t manage.

Key notes

  • Step-by-step process for reclaiming ownership of a Google Business Profile (GBP).
  • Common scenarios where you may need to claim or transfer a GBP.
  • How to escalate the claim process if the current owner is unresponsive.
How to Take Control of a Google Business Profile (GBP) You Don't Own

Step 1: Request Ownership of the GBP

If you’re not the current manager of the profile, Google allows you to request access from the existing owner.

  1. Go to Google Business Profile Manager (business.google.com) and search for the business.
  2. Click “Manage this business” (if the profile is already claimed, it will notify you).
  3. Fill out the ownership request form, explaining your connection to the business.
  4. Google will notify the current owner, giving them three days to respond.

Step 2: Wait for a Response (or Lack of One)

  • If the current owner approves your request, you’ll get instant access.
  • If they deny your request, you may need to provide proof of ownership.
  • If they don’t respond within three days, Google might allow you to claim the GBP yourself.

Step 3: Check for an Option to Claim the GBP

Once three days have passed, do the following:

  1. Refresh the Google Business Profile Manager page to see if an option to “Claim Ownership” appears.
  2. Check your email for updates from Google regarding your request.
  3. Visit your GBP dashboard (business.google.com) and see if a verification option is now available.

Step 4: If Google Still Doesn’t Release Ownership

If no claim option appears, try these:

  • Click “Suggest an Edit” on the GBP and report that the business is unclaimed.
  • Contact Google Support at Google Business Help:
    1. Click “Contact Us”
    2. Select “Ownership & Access Issues”
    3. Explain that you’ve requested access but haven’t received a response.

Step 5: Verify Ownership (If Required)

If Google requires additional verification, they might ask for:

  • A postcard sent to the business address with a verification code.
  • Proof of affiliation, such as an email from the business domain.
  • Business documents, like a license, lease agreement, or utility bill.

Why You Might Need Ownership in a Different Account

Even if you already have access in one Google account, you might need ownership in another for:

  • Linking GBP to Google Ads to enable location extensions in ads.
  • Transferring management to a new marketing agency or team member.
  • Using a work email instead of a personal one to manage multiple locations.
  • Reclaiming access after an employee or partner leaves the business.
  • Consolidating business management under a single Google account for easier access.

Final Thoughts

If you don’t manage your Google Business Profile, don’t panic—Google provides a structured way to claim and verify ownership. Whether you need access for Google Ads, marketing, or business updates, following these steps will help you regain control.

While the process may seem tedious, securing ownership of your GBP is critical for local SEO, customer trust, and business visibility. A well-managed GBP allows you to update contact details, respond to reviews, add photos, and ensure potential customers get the best information about your business.

If you hit roadblocks, Google Support can assist further, but it’s always a good idea to start the claim process as early as possible to avoid delays in case of urgent updates or marketing needs. Once you gain access, make sure to add backup managers to the profile so you don’t face this issue again in the future.

Taking ownership of your Google Business Profile is an investment in your business’s online presence. Now, go claim your GBP and ensure your business is properly represented online!

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