Business owners often use the terms “remove,” “delete,” and “close” when talking about Google Business Profiles. However, these actions can have very different meanings.
Understanding the difference is important before taking action on a Google Business Profile.
What Does “Permanently Closed” Mean?
A business marked as permanently closed tells Google users that the business is no longer operating at that location.
The listing may still appear in Google Search or Google Maps, but it can display a “Permanently closed” status.
This can be useful because customers searching for the business can understand what happened.
What Does “Remove” Mean?
Removal generally refers to requesting that Google take action on a listing because it is not eligible, is a duplicate, does not represent a real business, or violates Google’s guidelines.
Removal is not simply the same thing as removing a profile from your management account.
Removing a Profile From Your Account
If you manage a Google Business Profile and remove it from your account, this does not necessarily mean Google will erase the public listing from Maps.
The public listing may continue to exist.
Therefore, if your goal is to have an ineligible listing removed from Google Maps, you need to follow Google’s appropriate reporting process.
When Should You Mark a Business Permanently Closed?
A permanently closed status may be appropriate when:
- The business has genuinely stopped operating
- The business has permanently closed that location
- The business is no longer serving customers there
If the business simply moved, additional steps may be necessary to ensure Google has the correct information.
When Should You Report a Listing for Removal?
Removal may be appropriate when:
- The listing is a duplicate
- The business does not exist
- The listing violates Google’s guidelines
- The listing represents an ineligible business
- The information is misleading or inaccurate
Which Option Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Is the business genuinely closed?
If yes, a permanently closed status may be appropriate.
Is the listing a duplicate or invalid?
If yes, investigate Google’s reporting options.
Do you simply no longer want to manage the listing?
Removing it from your account may not remove the public listing.
Need Help Choosing the Right Approach?
Every Google Business Profile situation is different. Before requesting removal, review the listing and determine what Google action is appropriate.
I can help you assess duplicate, outdated, or potentially ineligible listings and identify the appropriate next step.
Learn about my GBP Removal Service
Final Thoughts
Google Business Profile removal and permanent closure are not the same thing.
If a business has genuinely closed, marking it permanently closed can help customers. If a listing is a duplicate or otherwise ineligible, a removal or correction request may be more appropriate.
Always provide accurate information when submitting a request to Google.
