The 2026 Google Business Profile checklist for local businesses
Your Google Business Profile is often the first thing customers see. Use this checklist to make sure yours is complete, accurate and working for you.
When someone searches for a local service, your Google Business Profile often appears before your website. It shows your hours, reviews, photos and a call button. For many customers it's the only thing they look at before deciding. Here's a complete checklist.
The basics
- ☐ Business name exactly as it appears on your sign. No extra keywords; Google can suspend profiles for that.
- ☐ Profile verified.
- ☐ Most specific primary category, plus relevant secondary categories.
- ☐ Address, or a service area if you go to customers.
- ☐ Phone number that is answered.
- ☐ Website link.
- ☐ Regular hours, plus special hours for holidays.
Details that help you stand out
- ☐ A 750-character description that says what you do, who you serve and where. Write it for people, not robots.
- ☐ Services listed, with short descriptions and prices where possible.
- ☐ Products added, if you sell physical items.
- ☐ Attributes filled in, such as wheelchair accessible, women-owned, online appointments.
- ☐ Booking link, if you take appointments.
Photos
- ☐ Logo and cover photo.
- ☐ Exterior photos so people recognize your building.
- ☐ Interior, team and work photos. Real ones, not stock.
- ☐ New photos added every month.
Reviews
- ☐ A simple, consistent way to ask every customer, such as a link or QR code.
- ☐ Every review answered, good or bad, within a few days.
- ☐ No incentives for reviews. Google doesn't allow them.
Staying active
- ☐ A post every week: offers, news, events or tips.
- ☐ Performance checked monthly: searches, calls, direction requests and website clicks.
Common mistakes
- Having two profiles for the same location. Remove the duplicate.
- Different phone numbers or addresses on your website, Yelp and Facebook.
- Letting an old employee keep the only owner access. Make sure you're an owner.
Want it done for you?
Versatile Agent sets up and manages Google Business Profiles for local businesses. Message us and we'll review yours.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I post on my Google Business Profile?
Once a week is a good rhythm. Share offers, news, events, new products or helpful tips.
Can I add keywords to my business name?
No. Use your real business name exactly as it appears on your sign. Adding keywords breaks Google's guidelines and can get your profile suspended.
What if my business has no storefront?
Set it up as a service-area business. You list the areas you serve and hide your address.
How do I see if my profile is working?
Open the Performance section of your profile each month to check searches, views, calls, direction requests and website clicks.