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Local Services Ads: Google Verified Badge

Updated November 11, 2026.

Google Guaranteed
Google Screened
License Verified by Google
✓ Google Verified

What changed

Google announced in August 2025 that it would retire the Google Guaranteed, Google Screened and License Verified by Google badges on Local Services Ads, effective October 20, 2025. They were replaced by a single Google Verified badge. Sources: Google's announcement and Search Engine Land.

1 badgereplaces the three older badges
Oct 20, 2025old badges retired
Verificationrequired to show the badge

What it means for your business

  • Local Services Ads still run. The ad product continues; the badges changed.
  • The badge shows verification, not a guarantee. The money-back guarantee tied to Google Guaranteed has ended, so don't advertise it.
  • You must complete screening. The Google Verified badge appears only on profiles that finish Google's screening and verification.
  • Google says ranking is not affected by the badge change itself.
  • Availability varies by category. Check which checks apply to your business type in your Local Services Ads account.

What we recommend

Audit

Find any website, ad or flyer copy that mentions the old badges or the guarantee.

Update

Change it to "Google Verified" and remove guarantee claims.

Verify

Confirm your license, insurance and background checks are current.

Strengthen

Keep your Google Business Profile complete and ask real customers for reviews.

✓ Do
  • Use the name "Google Verified"
  • Keep licenses and insurance up to date
  • Answer calls and requests quickly
✗ Don't
  • Promise a Google money-back guarantee
  • Keep old badge images on your site
  • Offer incentives for reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Google end Local Services Ads?

No. Google retired the old badges and replaced them with the Google Verified badge. The ads continue.

Is there still a Google guarantee on jobs?

The money-back guarantee that came with Google Guaranteed has ended, so businesses should not advertise it.

What should I change on my website?

Replace mentions or images of Google Guaranteed and Google Screened with "Google Verified", and remove any guarantee wording.

Does this change my ad ranking?

Google has said ranking is not affected by the badge change. Reviews, responsiveness and a complete profile remain important.

Related: PPC advertising in Las Vegas, SEO hub and local service areas.

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