At Qooqie, we regularly get asked why Google Ads rejects a new call extension to which you have an offsite call tracking number attached. The reason Google often gives is that this is an "unverified phone number. In this article, we'll go into this in more detail. We also tell you how you can make sure that Google will approve your call extensions from now on.
Verification of phone number
Google wants to provide users with the best possible experience. Therefore, Google imposes conditions on a phone number used in call extensions. In short, the phone number used must be owned by your organization. Therefore, Google verifies the phone number before you can use the call extension. This means that Google verifies that the phone number is also on the website to which the ad with call extension links. But are you using an offsite call tracking number? Then, by definition, this phone number is not on your website. Google then cannot verify this phone number and thus probably rejects the call extension.
Link Google Search Console to Google Ads
The solution is simple. In addition to verifying the phone number, you can also verify the ownership of your domain. This way, you prove that you are the owner of the website to which the ad links. You do this by linking your Google Search Console account to your Google Ads account. In Qooqie Support, we explain to you step by step how to do this.
Other reasons for Google rejection
In addition to because of an "unverified phone number," Google can also reject your call extension because of an "unacceptable phone number. Google can find a phone number unacceptable for a number of reasons. You can read more about this on Google's support website. It is good to know that the use of call tracking is not a reason for this type of rejection by Google.
Measure your calls from call extensions
Have you ever tried to create a call extension based on an offsite call tracking number, but Google disapproved? Since you now know what the solution is, we advise you to try it again anyway. After all, it provides you with valuable data. You will discover this way how many telephone leads generate call extensions. And if you set it up right, you can even see this per ad group!
Creating a call extension with an offsite number is done in two steps. First, you create an offsite call tracking number in the Qooqie application. Then you go to Google Ads and create the call extension. As you read above: make sure Google Search Console is linked to Google Ads. Want to know in detail how it works? You can read about it on Qooqie Support.
