If your Google Ads account has been suspended due to “Suspicious Payment Activity,” it can be frustrating, especially if you’ve already completed your tax information and have appealed the suspension. In this guide, we’ll explore why your account may have been suspended, what actions you can take to resolve the issue, and how to follow up when you’re not receiving a response from Google.
What Does “Suspicious Payment Activity” Mean?
Google Ads has strict policies in place to prevent fraudulent activity on the platform. When Google detects anything unusual related to your payment method or billing information, such as unexpected patterns of activity or discrepancies with the payment system, it may temporarily suspend your account. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Unusual billing behavior: If multiple payment methods were used in a short time or if the same credit card or payment method is linked to multiple accounts, Google might flag this as suspicious.
- Discrepancies with the payment information: If your payment information doesn’t match the details provided by your bank or credit card company, this can raise concerns.
- Attempts to bypass payment systems: Any signs that suggest you’re trying to manipulate Google Ads’ billing system can lead to a suspension. This could include using a payment method not typically accepted, or unusual chargebacks or reversals.
Why Does Completing Tax Info Not Resolve the Issue?
Google Ads requires tax information for advertisers in certain countries as part of their verification process. While completing your tax details is an essential part of ensuring compliance, it does not automatically resolve issues related to suspicious payment activity. The suspension could still be in place if the payment issue was not addressed, even if your tax information was submitted correctly.
The fact that your tax information was accepted is positive but does not guarantee the resolution of payment-related suspensions. You still need to ensure the payment methods and transaction history are transparent and compliant with Google Ads policies.
Steps to Take if Your Account is Suspended
If your Google Ads account is suspended for suspicious payment activity, and you have already completed the tax information and filed an appeal, consider the following steps:
1. Review Your Payment Methods
- Check Payment Method Details: Make sure that your payment information is accurate and up-to-date. This includes the name, address, and the card details associated with your Google Ads account. Verify that the payment method you’re using is accepted by Google Ads in your region.
- Avoid Using Multiple Payment Methods: If multiple credit cards or PayPal accounts are used in a short period, Google may flag the account. Stick to a single payment method, and ensure that all payment methods are valid and linked correctly.
- Chargebacks or Refunds: If you’ve recently experienced chargebacks or requested refunds on previous payments, it may have triggered a suspension. Clear any disputes with your payment provider to avoid further issues.
2. File a New Appeal or Request a Review
If you haven’t received a response to your initial appeal, you can try filing a new appeal:
- Submit a New Appeal: Navigate to your Google Ads account and open the “Suspended Account” section. You’ll find the option to appeal the suspension. Ensure that your appeal includes any necessary documentation that can help verify your identity and payment information. This could include:
- Screenshots or transaction logs from your bank or payment provider that show no discrepancies.
- Confirmation that you are the legitimate account owner.
3. Check for Other Policy Violations
Sometimes, suspicious payment activity is flagged due to other policy violations. Double-check your Google Ads account for:
- Compliance with Google’s advertising policies: Review Google Ads’ Advertising Policies to ensure that your campaign or website is in compliance with their guidelines.
- Suspicious activity elsewhere: If you’ve been using Google Ads services on multiple accounts or have had other accounts suspended in the past, this could contribute to the suspension. Google may automatically flag accounts that appear related to previous suspensions or violations.
What to Do While Waiting for a Response from Google
If your account remains suspended and you have already filed an appeal, it’s essential to wait patiently, but there are actions you can take while waiting for a response:
1. Monitor Your Email and Google Ads Account
- Google typically responds to appeals within a few business days, but in some cases, it may take longer. Keep an eye on your email inbox (including spam or junk folders) for updates from Google Ads.
- Regularly check your Google Ads account for any status changes or additional notifications about your suspension.
2. Contact Google Ads Support
If you haven’t received a response after a reasonable amount of time (usually 3-5 business days), consider reaching out to Google Ads Support directly.
- Live Chat or Phone Support: If you are eligible, you can contact Google Ads via live chat or phone. This may give you more direct communication and an opportunity to clarify the issue.
- Support Center: Visit the Google Ads Help Center for more information on handling suspended accounts, or to submit a case to the support team if you’re unable to use live chat.
Can I Continue Advertising While My Account is Suspended?
Unfortunately, once your Google Ads account is suspended, you cannot continue running any active campaigns. Google will temporarily stop serving ads from the suspended account. However, if you resolve the issue and your appeal is accepted, your campaigns should resume.
If the suspension is not lifted after multiple attempts to resolve the issue, you may want to consider creating a new Google Ads account (though this can sometimes violate Google’s policies if not done correctly).
Final Thoughts
Getting your Google Ads account suspended for suspicious payment activity can be stressful, especially if you’ve already completed your tax information and filed an appeal. The key is to ensure that all of your payment methods are legitimate, accurate, and compliant with Google’s policies. Be patient, monitor your account for updates, and follow up with Google Ads support if necessary.
By following the steps above, you should be able to resolve the issue and get your account reinstated so that you can continue advertising on the platform.