Google to unify Local Services Ads badges

Google will unify its Local Services Ads (LSA) badges into a single “Google Verified” icon, starting in October, the company announced Wednesday. 

What’s happening: “Google Verified will replace other LSA badges and programs, like Google Guaranteed, Google Screened, License Verified by Google and the Money Back Guarantee,” Google writes. 

• The icon will show alongside details of which checks a business has passed, and may also be displayed dynamically, “when predicted to aid decision making,” it adds. 
• The move will have no impact on business ranking, lead delivery, or billing, a company spokesperson tells Homepros. 

The big picture: Google’s logic is that one cohesive badge will simplify and create a clearer credibility signal for consumers. 

What’s next: There’s no action required for existing advertisers, as all businesses that have completed verification checks will be automatically eligible to have the new badge displayed, the spokesperson adds.