For many small businesses in Des Moines and across Iowa, a Google Business Profile (GBP) becomes the center of their entire marketing world. It’s free, it drives local calls, and it helps nearby customers find you on Google Maps—so it’s easy to see why business owners depend on it so heavily. The challenge is that relying on just one platform is risky, even when it’s Google. For Iowa businesses working with tight or nonexistent marketing budgets, GBP often feels like the only option.

That’s why having a solid local SEO is so important—it gives your business a stronger local foundation, protects your visibility in competitive Des Moines search results, and keeps leads coming in even if your GBP hits a snag.

If you’ve ever tried to verify your Google Business Profile (GBP) and found yourself stuck in the process, you’re not alone. Many small business owners face delays or rejections during verification—especially if they work from a home office or have a service-based business.

Recently, I went through the same challenge when taking over Manager access for a client’s Google Business Profile, and here’s exactly what I did to get verified successfully within just a couple of days.

1. Order a Custom Signage and Display It Clearly

Google often needs proof that your business operates from a legitimate location.
To start, I ordered a custom signage from FedEx that included:

• Business Name

• Address

• Phone Number

Once printed, I hung it on the exterior wall near the entrance so it was visible in video verification.

💡 Tip: Make sure your signage looks professional and matches your Google Business Profile name exactly.

2. Apply for BBB Accreditation

Adding credibility matters! I applied for Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation and included my BBB profile link in the verification documents.

This step helps Google recognize that your business is trustworthy and registered with a legitimate third-party organization.

🔗 If you’re just starting out, applying for BBB can also improve your online reputation and SEO visibility.

3. File for a DBA (Doing Business As)

If your display name differs slightly from your legal business name, Google may flag it.
To resolve this, I filed for a DBA (Doing Business As) that matched my display name exactly.
This shows Google that both names are officially connected and avoids confusion during verification.

4. Complete the Video Verification

Google now uses video verification to confirm that your business is physically real and operational. I recorded a detailed walkthrough that included:

• Street sign and door number

• Business signage on the wall

• Using a key to enter the workspace

• My business card

• Access to my website backend

• DBA certificate

• BBB business page open on the screen

• My calendar booking system

This comprehensive video demonstrated that my business was legitimate and active.

5. Wait for the Magic ✨

After submitting all the materials, my Google Business Profile was verified in just a couple of days!

You can also watch this video for complete verification process:

Final Thoughts

If you’re a small business owner struggling to get verified on Google, don’t give up!
By following these practical steps—showing clear signage, maintaining accurate documentation, and completing video verification—you can prove to Google that your business is real and trustworthy.

Verification isn’t just a formality—it’s the key to being found on Google Maps, gaining credibility, and attracting more local customers.

Google verification isn’t just about getting your business live—it’s about making sure your visibility lasts. Once your profile is verified, combining it with a strong SEO strategy helps Google better understand your website, services, and local relevance, especially in competitive markets like Des Moines and across Iowa. Going a step further, AEO services (Answer Engine Optimization) ensure your business shows up not just in traditional search results, but also as the direct answer in AI-driven platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and voice search. Together, SEO and AEO create a safety net around your Google Business Profile, so your leads don’t disappear if verification issues or suspensions ever happen.

💬 Need Help with Google Profile Setup or Verification?

At Tech Stack Digital Solutions, we help small businesses create, optimize, and verify their Google Business Profiles—so you can focus on running your business while we handle the tech side.

📞 Schedule a free consultation today and let’s get your business verified and visible online!