Few things are more frustrating than trying to search for your business online, only to realize your Google Business Profile (GBP) has been suspended. Your profile is essential for getting found in local searches, displaying accurate information, and collecting reviews. When it’s down, it can feel like your digital storefront has been closed without warning. But here’s the good news: suspension isn’t the end — it’s just a hiccup that can be fixed with the right steps. Find out why suspensions happen, how to appeal them, and what you can do to stay active and visible in the future. 

How to Handle a Suspended Google Business Profile 

Have you recently gone to check your business’s online listing only to find that your GBP has been suspended? Below are the most important things to know if your profile has been suspended, or if you want to avoid suspension altogether. 

Common Reasons for Suspensions — and How to Avoid Them 

Google doesn’t always give you a reason when suspending a GBP, but these are the most frequent triggers: 

• Inconsistent business information: If your business name, address, or phone number doesn’t match on your website or other directories, it may flag your profile as suspicious. 
• Prohibited content or practices: Using keywords in your business name that aren’t part of your legal business name, having multiple listings for the same business, or misrepresenting your services can all lead to suspension. 
• Suspicious account activity: Frequent edits, multiple managers with questionable access, or being logged in from different countries might signal a potential issue. 
• Not eligible for a listing: Businesses that don’t make in-person contact with customers (like online-only businesses) may be deemed ineligible. 

Avoiding suspension starts with staying honest, consistent, and updated. Make sure your business name reflects your real-world branding, avoid unnecessary edits, and never create fake or duplicate profiles. 

Steps to Appeal and Reinstate Your Profile 

If your profile is already suspended, don’t panic. Here’s how to take action: 

• Read the suspension notice carefully. Determine whether it’s a “soft” suspension (your listing is live but not verified) or a “hard” one (your listing is removed entirely). 
• Visit the reinstatement request form on Google’s support page and fill it out thoroughly. Be prepared to provide: 
  • A clear explanation of your business and why you believe the suspension was a mistake. 
  • Any documentation requested, such as business licenses, utility bills, or photos of your storefront with signage.
• Check your information. Make sure everything on your profile is accurate and follows Google’s guidelines before submitting your appeal. 
• Be patient. Reinstatement can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the situation and the evidence provided. 

Best Practices to Keep Your Listing Active and Optimized 

Once your GBP is active again — or if you want to prevent future issues — follow these practices: 

• Keep all business info accurate and up to date. Double-check your hours, location, and contact details regularly. 
• Use your real business name only. Don’t add extra keywords or service descriptions to the business name field. 
• Regularly post updates, photos, and respond to reviews. This activity shows Google your profile is managed by a real business owner. 
• Limit who has access to your account. Only trusted team members or agencies should manage your GBP. 
• Edit only when necessary. Making too many changes in a short amount of time can raise red flags. 

Need Help? Partner with Impact Group Marketing 

At Impact Group Marketing, we specialize in helping businesses not only recover from Google Business Profile suspensions but also maintain a strong, optimized online presence. 

Don’t have a GBP yet? We’ll set one up the right way so you’re positioned to succeed from the start. 

Not sure if Google Business is right for your company? Let us help you evaluate your goals and choose the best marketing strategy to meet them. 

From navigating reinstatement appeals to ensuring long-term success, we’re here to make your digital presence a powerful part of your business growth. Contact us today to get your business back on track.