In today’s competitive market, building trust with potential customers is crucial, especially for local businesses.
Whether you run a law firm, financial planning service, or real estate agency, clients need assurance that your services are credible and reliable.
This is where Google Screened comes in - a certification program by Google that helps local businesses establish trust and attract more clients.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Google Screened, how it works, and how your business can get certified.
What Exactly is Google Screened?
Google Screened is a certification program designed to help professional service firms and providers build trusted reputations online.
Google Screened professionals have passed extensive business checks. The process varies by business category and location and may include background, business registration, insurance, and license checks, and minimum review requirements. View Source
Businesses that pass Google’s rigorous screening and verification process earn the "Google Screened" badge, which is prominently displayed next to their business name in Local Services Ads and search results.
This badge serves as a powerful trust signal to potential customers, indicating that your business has been thoroughly vetted by Google.
Businesses that meet the Google Screened criteria could also be eligible for the Google Guaranteed program.
Google Guaranteed businesses have a different checkmark, and their services are financially backed by Google, offering up to $2,000 in coverage for consumers if the service provided does not meet their satisfaction.
However, it’s important to note that Google Guaranteed is generally available to home service companies (like plumbers, roofers and electricians), while Google Screened is more focused on professional services such as legal services, financial planning, and tax accounting.
Industries Covered:
Legal Services: Lawyers and law firms.
Financial Planning: Financial planners, including tax specialists.
Real Estate: Real estate agents and brokers.
Child Care Services: Child care providers and preschools.
Wellness Providers: Various health and wellness professionals.
Home Services: Currently available in select verticals in California and Florida.
Auto Care Providers: Available in select verticals in California and Florida.
Beauty Providers: Available in select verticals in California and Florida.
Miscellaneous Categories: Storage, insurance agencies, and electronics repair in select locations.
Why Should Local Businesses Consider Google Screened?
1. Stand Out in Search Results:
Enhanced Visibility: Businesses with the Google Screened badge are prominently displayed in Local Services Ads, increasing your chances of being noticed by potential clients.
2. Build Instant Trust:
Credibility at a Glance: The Google Screened badge acts as a trust signal, reassuring clients that your business has met Google’s high standards for professionalism, licensing, and reliability.
3. Gain a Competitive Edge:
Differentiate Your Business: In industries where reputation matters, the Google Screened badge sets you apart from competitors who may not have undergone the same level of scrutiny.
4. Drive More Qualified Leads:
Attract the Right Clients: Clients who see the Google Screened badge are more likely to choose your services, leading to higher conversion rates and more qualified leads.
How to Get Google Screened?
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Visit Google's Eligibility Page: Determine if your business is in an eligible industry and region. The program is available in select locations and industries, primarily in the U.S. and U.K.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
Prepare Your Documentation: This includes business licenses, insurance information, and background details on key personnel. These are critical for passing Google’s screening process.
Step 3: Apply Through Google Local Services Ads
Set Up Your Google Ads Account: If you don’t already have one, create a Google Ads account. Navigate to the Local Services Ads section and begin your application by providing detailed information about your business.
Step 4: Undergo Background Checks
Complete Google’s Screening Process: Depending on your industry, Google will conduct background checks on business owners and key personnel. These checks may include criminal background checks, license verifications, and insurance confirmations.
Step 5: Meet Google’s Criteria
Ensure Compliance: Your business must meet all of Google’s eligibility requirements, such as maintaining proper licensing and insurance coverage, which are verified periodically.
Step 6: Verification and Approval
Earn Your Badge: Once Google reviews and approves your application, your business will receive the Google Screened badge, which will be displayed in search results.
Step 7: Maintain Your Status
Stay Compliant: Keep your licenses and insurance updated and continue to meet Google’s requirements to maintain your Google Screened status.
Also Read: Are Google Local Services Ads Worth It?
Detailed Industry-Specific Requirements
1. Real Estate Agents and Brokers:
U.S.: Must pass a license check. In some states, additional background checks are not required if already mandated by the state for licensing.
U.K.: Must pass business registration and insurance checks. Background checks are not required.
2. Lawyers:
U.S.: All active law licenses are verified. No separate background check is needed as this is covered during state licensing.
3. Financial Planners:
Business-Level: Must pass a background check.
Individual Professionals: Must pass both a license check and a background check.
4. Child Care and Preschool Providers:
License Check: Mandatory for all providers. No separate background check is required as these are covered under state licensing requirements.
5. Wellness Providers:
Must meet background checks, license requirements, and insurance requirements.
6. Home Service Providers, Auto Care Providers, and Beauty Providers:
Available in specific verticals in California and Florida. Must meet background checks, license requirements, and insurance requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Google Screened
Is the Google Screened application process free?
Yes, the screening and verification process for Google Screened is free of charge for service providers.
How can customers identify a Google Screened provider?
Customers can identify a Google Screened provider by the badge displayed next to the business’s name in Local Services listings.
What industries are eligible for Google Screened?
Industries include Legal Services, Financial Planning, Real Estate, Child Care, Wellness, Home Services (in select regions), Auto Care (in select regions), Beauty (in select regions), and Miscellaneous categories.
Does the Google Screened badge guarantee top rankings?
No, while the badge enhances your visibility and trustworthiness, it does not guarantee top rankings in search results. Rankings are influenced by various factors, including competition and SEO.
How often are licenses and insurance checked by Google?
Google verifies professional licenses and insurance when businesses join Local Services and periodically on an ongoing basis to ensure compliance.
Can my business lose its Google Screened badge?
Yes, if your business fails to maintain the required standards, such as valid licenses or insurance, Google may revoke your Google Screened status.
Start Advertising with Google Local Services Ads
Google Screened and Google Guaranteed are effective strategies for professional service businesses to build trust and stand out in search results.
By advertising with Google Local Services Ads, you can increase visibility and attract more qualified leads.
Get Started Today: Advertise with Google Local Services Ads to earn your Google Screened badge.
Need help? PrimeLSA.ai specializes in managing Google Local Services Ads, helping businesses meet Google Screened criteria and drive profitability. Schedule a consultation to optimize your online advertising strategy.
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