Google My Business Video Verification Not Working: Causes, Fixes, and Proven Solutions

Many business owners face the same problem: Google My Business video verification does not work. You record the video. You upload it. The status shows “processing.” Then the “Verify” button appears again. No approval. No rejection. No clear explanation.

This guide explains why Google Business Profile video verification fails, what causes repeated errors, and how to fix the issue step by step. It also explains what to do when nothing works and how to get real help.

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What Is Google My Business Video Verification?

Google My Business, now called Google Business Profile, uses video verification to confirm that a business is real and controlled by the owner. Video verification replaces older methods like postcards for many businesses.

The video helps Google confirm three things:

The business exists
The business is located where it claims
You manage or represent the business

Without verification, you cannot fully manage your profile. Learn more about Google Business Profile basics here: GBP Master Guide.

Why Google Video Verification Often Fails

Video verification fails more often than Google admits. Most failures happen due to one or more of the following:

Missing required elements in the video
Poor video quality or large file size
Upload errors that stop at 99 percent
Low trust signals around the business
System bugs on Google’s side

Many users repeat the process multiple times with the same result. This does not always mean you did something wrong.

Common Signs That Video Verification Is Not Working

You may be dealing with a broken verification process if:

The “Verify now” button appears again after upload
The status stays on “Processing” for more than 5 days
The video upload freezes or fails
No rejection email arrives
You cannot access support

Google Video Verification Requirements Explained Simply

Google checks videos using automated systems and manual review. Your video must meet all requirements at once.

General Video Rules

Your video must be:

One continuous recording
At least 30 seconds long
Recorded and uploaded from a mobile device
Uploaded directly inside your Business Profile

Requirements for Storefront and Hybrid Businesses

Your video must show:

1. Proof of Location: Street signs, building numbers, nearby businesses or landmarks.

2. Proof the Business Exists: Permanent signage, storefront, office or showroom. The business name must match your profile name exactly.

3. Proof of Management: Unlocking doors, accessing staff-only areas, or opening a POS system.

Requirements for Service-Area Businesses

1. Service Area Proof: Street signs, landmarks, branded vehicles.

2. Business Proof: Tools, equipment, branded uniforms, marketing materials.

3. Proof of Control: Performing the service or showing business documents with matching name.

Why Google Keeps Rejecting or Ignoring Your Video

1. Missing One Required Element

Google does not partially approve videos. If even one required item is missing, verification fails.

2. Video File Is Too Large

Large files fail more often. Best settings: 720p or 1080p, under 2 minutes, using your standard camera app. Many users report success with videos under 40 seconds.

3. Upload Bugs and System Errors

Google has acknowledged uploads stopping at 99 percent. Fixes: Use Chrome, switch to fast Wi-Fi, or try an Android device instead of an iPhone.

4. Low Trust Signals

Google applies stricter checks when trust is low. This happens if the business is new or address history is inconsistent. See real examples: Local SEO Cases.

How to Fix Google My Business Video Verification Not Working

Step 1: Prepare the Video Script. Plan a clear flow showing the street, signage, interior, and control.

Step 2: Use 720p or 1080p settings. Shorter videos work better.

Step 3: Use Android and fast Wi-Fi if possible.

Step 4: Upload during low traffic hours (late night or early morning).

Step 5: Review before uploading. Google now allows video review before submission.

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When to Contact Google Support

Contact support if upload fails repeatedly or status stays pending beyond 5 days. Use the Support Form. They may offer live video call verification or manual review.

Can You Skip Video Verification?

In some cases, Google may allow phone or email verification. Learn more: How to avoid google video verification.

How Long Does Google Video Verification Take?

Typical review time is 3 to 5 business days. Full breakdown here: Video Verification Timeframe.

What Happens After Successful Verification?

Once approved, you can edit details, add posts, and reply to reviews. Verification unlocks local growth: Benefits of Local SEO.

How Video Verification Affects Local Rankings

Verification alone does not guarantee rankings; it enables optimization. Understand how this compares to normal SEO: Local SEO vs SEO.

Final Thoughts

Google My Business video verification failing is common and frustrating. Most failures come from missing proof, file size issues, or system errors. If it does not succeed, support escalation becomes necessary. For a full overview of local visibility, visit: Local SEO Hub.

FAQs

How to pass Google business video verification?

Passing Google Business Profile video verification requires a single, continuous recording that proves your business is real, properly located, and operated by you. Start outside your building to capture your street sign, building number, and nearby landmarks to prove your geographic location. Then, walk inside your workspace and film your “tools of the trade,” such as a POS system, specialized machinery, or branded vehicles. Finally, demonstrate your authority by unlocking a door with your key or logging into your business dashboard on camera. For a more in-depth walkthrough, see our guide on how to pass google business verification video.

Why is video verification not working?

There are several technical and logical reasons why your video verification may fail. Common issues include a poor internet connection during the upload process, low-quality or shaky footage, or an address mismatch between your physical location and your profile details. Google also rejects videos that contain multiple clips, as the footage must be one continuous take. If you encounter a “Video verification not working” message, it is often best to clear your browser cache, check your mobile signal, and try recording a stronger, clearer video. You can find a full troubleshooting list here: google my business video verification not working.

Can I upload a video to verify my business on Google?

No, you cannot upload a pre-recorded video file from your phone’s gallery to verify your business. Google requires that the verification video be recorded directly through the Google Business Profile interface using your smartphone camera in real-time. This ensures that the footage is authentic and has not been edited or digitally altered. Before you start, ensure you meet all the google video verification requirements to avoid having to restart the process.

Why is my Google business verification not working?

Broadly speaking, if your general verification is failing beyond just the video method, it may be due to your business category being flagged as “high risk” or because your account history has previous violations. In some cases, Google may offer a method like phone or postcard verification, but then rescind it if they detect suspicious activity. If you are stuck in a loop, you may need to contact Google Business Profile support or use the official Verification Status Tool to provide manual documentation like utility bills or business licenses.

How to solve Google verification problem?

The first step to solving a Google verification problem is identifying exactly where the process is breaking down. If the problem is “Pending Verification” for a long time, remember that how long google business video verification takes can range from 24 hours to 5 business days. If you are denied, return to your dashboard and look for the “Get Verified” button to try again with better evidence. For businesses that cannot pass video verification, you may eventually be prompted to verify google business by phone if your business category allows it.

What are common GMB mistakes?

The most frequent Google My Business (now GBP) mistakes include using a keyword-stuffed business name, having no visible signage at a physical storefront, or using a virtual office address. Other common errors include choosing the wrong business category or failing to respond to bad google reviews, both of which can damage your local ranking. Many businesses also fail to keep their profiles active; following a local SEO checklist can help ensure you aren’t missing critical updates.

How do you know if your gmb is suspended?

You will typically know your profile is suspended because you will see a “Suspended” or “Disabled” notification in your Google Business Profile manager dashboard. Additionally, your business will likely vanish from Google Maps and local search results. Suspensions usually happen due to “Quality Issues,” such as drastic changes to your business name or operating a business in a category that requires strict licensing. If this happens, you must fix the underlying issue and submit a reinstatement request.

What is the 6 month rule in business?

In the context of local business management, the “6-month rule” often refers to the period of time required for a new business to establish enough “local authority” to begin ranking reliably in the Google 3-Pack. It suggests that businesses should expect at least six months of consistent optimization, review gathering, and citation building before seeing a significant return on investment. This timeline aligns with how long it takes for SEO to work for most competitive local keywords.

What is the 80/20 rule in SEO?

The 80/20 rule (Pareto Principle) in SEO suggests that 80% of your search engine results will come from 20% of your efforts. In local SEO, this typically means that the majority of your traffic and calls will be driven by a small handful of high-performance primary keywords and your Google Business Profile. Instead of trying to rank for hundreds of obscure terms, focus your energy on your primary keyword research and profile optimization to capture the bulk of your potential customers.