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How To Change Your Work Address on Google Maps: The Definitive Guide

So, you’ve moved offices, expanded operations, or maybe just realized Google Maps has you routed to the wrong side of the building. Whatever the reason, you need to change your work address on Google Maps. Don’t worry, this guide will walk you through the process like a seasoned cartographer guiding a lost explorer.

The most direct way to change your work address on Google Maps is to edit your Google Account information. Navigate to Google Maps, ensure you are logged in, and access your saved places. From there, you can modify your “Home” and “Work” addresses. Alternatively, if you are managing a business listing, you will need to access and edit the information directly through your Google Business Profile dashboard. This is the crucial difference: personal address changes vs. business listing updates.

Changing Your Personal “Work” Address

For most individuals, the “Work” address on Google Maps is a personal setting associated with their Google Account. This is what Google uses to provide personalized commute information and tailor other location-based services.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Personal Work Address

Open Google Maps: Launch the Google Maps app on your phone or visit maps.google.com on your computer.
Sign In: Make sure you are signed in to the Google Account you use for work and personal purposes. Your profile icon will be visible in the upper right corner.
Access Your Saved Places: Click on the three horizontal lines (the “hamburger menu”) in the upper left corner to open the menu. Scroll down and select “Your places”.
Navigate to Labeled: In the “Your places” menu, select the “Labeled” tab. Here, you’ll find your “Home” and “Work” addresses.
Edit Your Work Address: Click on the pencil icon next to “Work”.
Enter Your New Address: Start typing your new work address in the search bar. As you type, Google Maps will provide suggestions based on known addresses.
Select the Correct Address: Choose the correct address from the suggestions. Double-check the address to ensure accuracy.
Save Your Changes: Once you’ve selected the correct address, click “Save.” Your work address is now updated!

Updating Your Business Address on Google Maps: Google Business Profile is Key

If you’re a business owner, updating your business address requires a different approach. You’ll need to manage your Google Business Profile (GBP). This profile is how your business appears on Google Search and Google Maps. Ensuring your GBP is accurate is critical for customers to find you.

How To Update Your Business Address in Google Business Profile

Access Your Google Business Profile: The easiest way is to search for your business name on Google. If you’re logged into the Google account associated with your business, you should see a panel on the right side of the search results with options to manage your profile. Alternatively, you can go directly to google.com/business and sign in.
Verify Your Business Profile (If Needed): If you haven’t already verified your business, you’ll need to do so. Google typically requires verification through a postcard sent to your business address or via phone. This step is crucial to claiming ownership and controlling your business listing.
Go to “Info”: Once you’re in your GBP dashboard, click on the “Info” tab. This section contains all the essential information about your business.
Edit the Address Field: Look for the “Address” field (it will likely be represented by a location pin icon). Click on the pencil icon next to the current address to edit it.
Enter Your New Address: Carefully type your new business address in the provided fields. Be precise and use the official address format.
Adjust the Map Marker (if necessary): Sometimes, even with the correct address, the map marker might be slightly off. Google allows you to manually adjust the marker to pinpoint your exact location. This is especially important if your business is in a large building or complex.
Save Your Changes: After entering the new address and adjusting the marker, click “Apply” or “Save.”
Wait for Approval: Google will typically review your address change before it goes live. This process can take a few hours to a few days. You may receive a notification about the review status in your GBP dashboard.

Addressing Common Issues

Sometimes, even with the best instructions, things don’t go according to plan. Here are a few common issues and how to tackle them:

Address Not Found: If Google Maps can’t find your address, double-check the spelling and ensure you’re using the correct format. You might need to add more specific details, like the building number or suite number.
Address Already Claimed: If you’re trying to claim your business address, and it’s already claimed by someone else, you’ll need to initiate a verification process through Google. This typically involves proving ownership of the business.
Edits Not Saving: Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Clear your browser cache and cookies, or try a different browser.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions that cover many different scenarios related to updating addresses on Google Maps.

1. How long does it take for my address change to be reflected on Google Maps?

For personal address changes, the update is usually immediate. For business address changes via Google Business Profile, Google needs to verify the information. This process typically takes between a few hours and a few days. Keep an eye on your GBP dashboard for updates on the review status.

2. What if my business doesn’t have a physical address? Can I still list my business on Google Maps?

Yes! If you provide services at your customers’ locations (e.g., a plumber, mobile mechanic), you can hide your business address and specify your service area in your Google Business Profile. This allows customers to find you without displaying your home address.

3. Can I change my work address from my mobile device?

Absolutely. The process is nearly identical to the desktop version. Use the Google Maps app and follow the steps for editing your “Work” address under “Your places” (for personal addresses) or manage your Google Business Profile through the Google Business Profile app (for business addresses).

4. What if Google Maps keeps suggesting the wrong address for my business?

Make sure your address is formatted correctly in your Google Business Profile. You can also manually adjust the map marker to pinpoint your exact location. If the issue persists, you can report a problem to Google through the “Suggest an edit” option on the Google Maps listing.

5. Can I change my “Home” address in Google Maps using the same method?

Yes, the process for changing your “Home” address is exactly the same as changing your “Work” address within the “Labeled” section of “Your places” in Google Maps.

6. What if I have multiple businesses at different addresses? How do I manage them on Google Maps?

You’ll need to create a separate Google Business Profile for each business. Each profile should have its unique address and information. You can manage multiple GBP profiles from a single Google account.

7. How do I claim my business on Google Maps if it’s not already listed?

Search for your business name on Google Maps. If it doesn’t appear, look for an option to “Add your business” or “Claim this business.” You’ll then need to follow the verification process to prove ownership.

8. Is it free to list my business on Google Maps?

Yes! Listing your business on Google Maps through Google Business Profile is completely free.

9. What’s the difference between Google Maps and Google My Business (now Google Business Profile)?

Google Maps is the mapping service. Google Business Profile is the tool you use to manage how your business appears on Google Maps and Google Search. Think of GBP as the control panel for your business’s presence on Google’s platforms.

10. I moved my business but kept the same phone number. Do I need to update my phone number in Google Business Profile as well?

Even if your phone number remains the same, it’s always a good idea to review and update all information in your Google Business Profile after a move. This ensures accuracy and improves your search ranking.

11. Can I hire someone to manage my Google Business Profile for me?

Yes, many digital marketing agencies and freelancers offer Google Business Profile management services. This can be a good option if you don’t have the time or expertise to manage your profile yourself.

12. How does Google use my “Work” address (the personal one, not the business)?

Google uses your “Work” address primarily to provide personalized commute information, such as traffic updates and estimated travel times. It may also use this information to tailor other location-based services and recommendations. You can control what location information Google collects and uses in your Google Account settings.