Google Ads requires advertisers to complete Advertiser Verification to ensure compliance with their policies and improve transparency for users. This process typically involves submitting documentation to verify your identity, location, and, in some cases, your business status. If you’re an individual rather than a business and unable to provide traditional business verification documents, here’s how you can navigate the process.
1. Understand the Advertiser Verification Process
Advertiser Verification varies based on your account type and the nature of your ads. Typically, Google requires:
- Identity Verification: Proof of your name and address.
- Business Information: For business accounts, documents like a business license or tax ID may be required.
If you’re not running ads as a business, you’ll need to clarify your status during verification.
2. Indicate Your Status as an Individual
Google Ads allows individual advertisers to run campaigns without being registered as a business. Follow these steps:
- When prompted for verification, select options indicating that you are an individual advertiser, not a business.
- Provide a valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport) and proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement).
Google accepts these documents as proof for individuals running ads for personal projects or non-commercial purposes.
3. Contact Google Ads Support for Clarification
If the verification prompts seem tailored only to businesses, contact Google Ads Support for guidance:
- Log into your account and navigate to the Help Center (click the question mark icon in the top right).
- Use the Contact Us option to explain your situation, stating that you are not a business but want to complete verification.
- Ask for a specific resolution tailored to individual advertisers.
Support agents can often provide alternate instructions or manually approve your account.
4. Ensure Compliance with Google Ads Policies
Even as an individual advertiser, you must adhere to Google Ads policies. These include guidelines on ad content, user privacy, and prohibited practices. Clearly state the purpose of your advertising to avoid policy violations. Examples of individual use cases include:
- Promoting a personal blog or website.
- Advertising events, freelance services, or hobbies.
5. Use Personal Identification Documents
If the verification process seems rigid, you can often meet the requirements with personal documents:
- Proof of Identity: A scanned copy of your ID or passport.
- Proof of Location: A utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement with your address.
Submit these documents through the Advertiser Verification portal provided in your Google Ads account.
6. Submit an Appeal if Necessary
If Google rejects your verification, you can appeal the decision:
- Visit the Advertiser Verification Appeal Form.
- Provide a detailed explanation of why you cannot provide business documents, emphasizing your status as an individual advertiser.
- Attach any alternative documents that might support your case.
7. Consider Alternative Advertising Platforms
If you’re unable to meet Google’s requirements despite your best efforts, you may explore other advertising platforms with more flexible verification processes, such as:
- Facebook Ads for promoting personal projects.
- LinkedIn Ads for professional services.
- Microsoft Advertising (Bing) for simpler ad campaigns.
Final Thoughts
If you’re not a business, completing Google’s Advertiser Verification may seem challenging, but it’s still achievable by using personal identification documents and contacting support for clarification. Remember to communicate clearly with Google about your intentions and status, and ensure that your advertising complies with all policies.