Seeing that "suspended" notification on your Google Business Profile is every business owner's nightmare. Your phone stops ringing. Your website traffic drops. You feel invisible. We've been there with our clients, and we've developed a systematic recovery process.
Step 1: Understand Why You Were Suspended
Google suspends profiles for specific reasons. Check your email for a suspension notice—Google will tell you why. Common causes include:
- Duplicate listings (having multiple profiles for the same location)
- Keyword-stuffed business name (e.g., "Best Plumber Houston TX")
- Address discrepancies across the web
- Shared office space without a suite number
- Reported by competitors for guideline violations
Step 2: Don't Submit Multiple Appeals
This is the #1 mistake businesses make. Submitting appeal after appeal doesn't help—it actually hurts your chances. Wait until you've fixed the underlying issue.
Step 3: Fix the Root Cause
Address the specific issue Google identified:
- If it's a keyword-stuffed name, change it to your legal business name
- If it's address issues, verify your address matches your website and other directories
- If it's duplicates, mark the extra listings as "permanently closed"
Step 4: Submit Your Appeal With Evidence
Through Google Business Profile Manager, submit an appeal that includes:
- Business license or documentation
- Photos of your signage
- Utility bill with your business address
- A brief explanation of what you fixed
Step 5: Wait (Patiently)
Google's review timeline varies from 3 to 14 business days. Don't resubmit during this period. If rejected, carefully read the new reason and adjust your approach.
When to Call a Professional
If you've been rejected twice or can't identify the issue, it's time to get expert help. GMB Guardian has a 95% reinstatement rate for suspended profiles—we know exactly what Google wants to see.
