Managing a Google Business Profile (GBP) effectively requires understanding the difference between a disabled and a suspended listing. According to Brad Wetherall, former Director of Google Business Profile Team at Google, this distinction is rooted in how Google’s multiple databases operate: the GBP Database and the Maps Database.

The GBP Database vs. the Maps Database

Google utilizes two key databases to manage business profiles:

GBP Database: This private database stores all business-related data, accessible via business.google.com. It’s where you can make edits and updates.

Maps Database: This public-facing database holds location data, making it visible on Google Maps and search results.

Changes in the GBP database don’t immediately appear on Maps. Instead, they go through a “pending” stage before being published live.

What is a Disabled Google Business Profile?

A GBP becomes disabled when the connection between the GBP database and the Maps database is disrupted.

The listing may still appear on Google Maps for public viewing.

You cannot access or edit the profile from your GBP dashboard.

In cases like retired practitioners or inactive businesses, disabled listings may also be unverified and entirely removed from Google Maps.

What is a Suspended Google Business Profile?

A suspended GBP occurs when Google flags issues, leading to:

The profile being removed from public view on Google Maps.

A “suspended” status appearing in the GBP dashboard, restricting further edits until resolved.

Suspensions are often due to guideline violations or technical errors. To reinstate the profile, you must resolve the issue and submit a reinstatement request to Google.

Key Takeaways

The main difference lies in accessibility and visibility: a disabled profile might still appear on Maps but is unmanageable, while a suspended profile is entirely removed from public view. Both require specific actions to resolve, whether re-establishing access or addressing compliance issues.