Why Google Maps shows the wrong address for a location
Google Maps builds its address database from many sources: official records, business submissions, user reports, and automated data collection. When these sources conflict or when a business moves, the map can show an address that no longer matches reality. The address you see might be outdated, belong to a nearby building, or reflect a data entry error from years ago.
The good news is that you do not have to live with an incorrect address. Google lets you report the problem directly, and the company reviews these reports within days or weeks. Your report goes into a queue with others, and Google's systems check whether the correction makes sense before updating the map for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- You can report an incorrect address by opening the location on Google Maps, tapping the name or address at the bottom, and selecting "Suggest an edit."
- Google accepts corrections for the street address, postal code, and phone number, but you will need to describe what is wrong in your own words.
- If you own or manage the business, you can claim it through Google Business Profile to make changes directly without waiting for review.
- Reports typically take one to three weeks to process, and Google will notify you by email if your correction is accepted.
- If the address is still wrong after your report, you can submit a second report or contact Google support through your Business Profile.
How to report an incorrect address on your phone
Open Google Maps and search for the location or business by name. Tap the name or address card that appears at the bottom of the screen — it will show the business name, current address, phone number, and hours if available. This opens the full location details page.
Scroll down until you see a pencil icon next to the address or other information. Tap that pencil icon, which opens a menu with the option "Suggest an edit." Choose that option. Google will then show you the current information and ask you what needs to change. Select the field you want to correct — usually "Address" — and type the correct information into the box that appears.
At the bottom of the screen, you will see a text box labeled "Tell Google about this change" or similar. Describe what is wrong with the current address and why the new one is correct. For example: "This business moved to 425 Oak Street in 2023. The old address on the map is now a parking lot." The more specific you are, the faster Google can verify your report. Tap "Submit" when you are done.
How to report an incorrect address on a computer
Go to Google Maps in your web browser and search for the location by name or address. Click on the business name or address in the left panel or on the map itself. A details panel will open on the right side of the screen showing the address, phone, website, hours, and reviews.
Look for a pencil icon next to the address or other details. Click it to open the edit menu. Select "Suggest an edit" from the options. Google will display the current address and ask which field you want to change. Click on "Address" if that is what needs correcting, and type the correct address into the box.
In the text box below, explain what is wrong and why your correction is accurate. Be specific about dates, cross streets, or nearby landmarks if possible. Click "Submit" to send your report to Google for review.
Claiming the business through Google Business Profile
If you own or manage the business, you can make address changes faster by claiming it through Google Business Profile rather than submitting a report. When you claim a business, Google gives you direct editing access, and your changes go live when ready instead of waiting for review.
To claim a business, go to Google Business Profile in your web browser and sign in with a Google account. Search for your business by name. If it appears in the results, click on it and select "Manage this business." Google will ask you to verify that you own or manage it — usually by sending a postcard to the address on file or by confirming a phone number. Once verified, you can edit the address, phone number, hours, website, and photos directly from your dashboard.
If your business does not appear in Google Maps yet, you can create a new listing through Google Business Profile. Click "Create a new business" and fill in your business name, address, phone number, and category. Google will send a verification postcard to confirm you control that address before the listing goes live on the map.
What happens after you submit a correction
Google receives your report and adds it to a queue for review. The company uses automated systems and human reviewers to check whether the correction is accurate. This process usually takes one to three weeks, though it can be faster for obvious errors or slower during high-volume periods.
If Google accepts your correction, the address updates on the map and you will receive an email notification. If the company needs more information or cannot verify the change, you may receive an email asking for clarification. If your report is rejected, you can submit another report with additional details or evidence, such as a link to the business website showing the new address.
You can check the status of your report by going back to the location on Google Maps and looking for a notification banner at the top of the details panel. It will tell you whether your suggestion is pending, accepted, or rejected.
When to contact Google support directly
If you have submitted a report and it has been rejected twice, or if the address is still wrong after several weeks, you have other options. If you own the business and have claimed it through Google Business Profile, you can contact Google support directly through your Business Profile dashboard. Click the help icon and describe the problem — Google prioritizes support requests from verified business owners.
If you do not own the business but the address is clearly wrong, you can submit a report through Google Maps Help. Go to the Google Maps Help Center, select "Report a problem," and describe the issue. Include the business name, current incorrect address, correct address, and any evidence you have (such as a link to the business website or a screenshot of their social media showing the new location). Google reviews these reports separately from in-app suggestions and may escalate them if the error affects many users.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take Google to fix an incorrect address?
Most corrections are processed within one to three weeks. straightforward, obvious errors sometimes update faster. If your report has been pending for more than a month, you can submit a second report with additional details or contact Google support through your Business Profile if you own the business.
Can I change the address if I do not own the business?
Yes, you can report an incorrect address through "Suggest an edit" even if you do not own the business. Google reviews your report and decides whether to accept it. If you do own the business, claiming it through Google Business Profile lets you make changes when ready without waiting for review.
What if Google rejects my address correction?
Google may reject a correction if it cannot verify the new address or if the report lacks detail. Try submitting again with more specific information — include cross streets, nearby landmarks, or a link to the business website showing the correct address. If you own the business, claim it through Google Business Profile to edit the address directly.
Will my name appear on the map if I report an incorrect address?
No. When you submit a correction through "Suggest an edit," your name does not appear on the map or in the location details. Google tracks your report internally but does not credit individual users publicly. If your correction is accepted, only the updated address will show.
Can I change other details besides the address?
Yes. The "Suggest an edit" option lets you report errors in the phone number, website, hours, business category, and other details. Use the same process: tap the pencil icon, select the field you want to change, enter the correct information, and describe what is wrong. Google reviews all types of corrections the same way.