Google Guaranteed vs Screened Explained: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

Have you ever searched for a local plumber, electrician, or attorney?

You might have noticed those top listings labeled as “Google Guaranteed” or “Google Screened.” These badges are part of Google’s Local Services Ads (LSA) program, designed to establish trust between customers and nearby businesses.

But what exactly do these badges signify, and which one is suitable for your business? 

Let’s simplify it here in this blog. This head-to-head comparison of Google Guaranteed vs Screened badges will help you make an ideal decision for your business.

What Is Google Guaranteed?

Google Guaranteed is a badge awarded to service-based companies that meet a thorough background check and license verification program.

Key Features:

• Guarantee Badge (green badge) with a check mark.
• Available to companies in-home services such as plumbing, HVAC, cleaning, and roofing.
• Google refunds the customer (up to a certain amount) if they’re unhappy with the service.

How It Builds Trust:

When customers notice the Google Guaranteed badge, it indicates that Google has checked out the business and is willing to stand behind it. That encourages people to call or text the business directly from the ad.

What Is Google Screened?

Google Screened is a similar concept applied to professional services, such as lawyers, real estate professionals, and financial advisors.

Key Features:

• Green checkmark badge, but “Google Screened” instead.
• Background and license screening, but no money-back guarantee.
• Perfect for industries where advice or consultation is the product itself.

How It Builds Trust:

The Google Screened badge informs users that this business has screened employees and is a legitimate service provider. Although it does not come with a satisfaction guarantee, it still brings a solid layer of credibility.

Google Guaranteed vs Screened: Key Differences

Feature	Google Guaranteed	Google Screened
Industries Covered	Home services (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, etc.)	Professional services (lawyers, financial advisors, real estate)
Customer Reimbursement	Yes (up to $2,000 in some cases)	No
Badge Appearance	Green checkmark + “Google Guaranteed”	Green checkmark + “Google Screened”
Level of Verification	Background checks + license + insurance	Background checks + license
Trust Signal Strength	Very High	High

Benefits of Joining Google’s Local Services Ads Program

Whether Guaranteed or Screened, both badges offer great benefits such as:

1. Top Placement on Google

Your business appears at the top of search results, even above traditional ads and map listings.

2. Pay Per Lead, Not Per Click

You only pay when a potential customer contacts you. No need to worry about wasted clicks.

3. Higher Trust, More Leads

That little badge goes a long way. It shows customers that you’re legit, which leads to more calls, bookings, and conversions.

Which One Is Right for Your Business?

Choose Google Guaranteed if:

• You offer in-home services (like plumbing, electrical, HVAC, cleaning, locksmiths, etc.).
• You want the added trust of Google’s money-back guarantee.
• You’re confident in your service and want Google to stand behind you.

Choose Google Screened if:

• You provide professional advice or consultation (like law, accounting, financial services, or real estate).
• You want to build credibility with a verified badge.
• You don’t need a service-based guarantee, but you want to stand out in a competitive field.

How to Get Started

Getting verified is easier than it sounds, but it does take a bit of time.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Business license and proof of insurance.
• Background checks for owners and sometimes employees.
• Google My Business profile.
• Consistent positive reviews.

Once you get approved, your badge will be displayed alongside your Local Services Ad, and you can begin connecting with high-intent customers right away.

Scenarios

• Suppose you have a plumbing company in Toronto. You sign up for the Google Guaranteed program or the Google Verified Business. You pass the vetting process, and your company appears at the top when someone searches for “emergency plumber near me.” They notice the badge, trust it, and call you up, all without clicking on your website.
• Now, let’s say you’re a Vancouver family lawyer. You’re going through the Google Screened process, and your ad appears at the top for “divorce lawyer near me.” Once more, the customer notices the badge, feels confident, and calls you directly from the ad.

In both situations, your visibility, credibility, and conversion rate all rise simply because of those small badges.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between Google Guaranteed vs Screened depends on your business type and the level of trust you want to establish with potential customers. Both badges boost your visibility, build credibility, and drive high-intent leads through Google’s Local Services Ads. Whether you’re offering home services or professional consultations, understanding the differences can help you make a smart, growth-focused decision.

Need help getting started with LSAs or improving your local presence?

Partner with Digital ByteTeck—your trusted digital marketing agency. We’ll guide you through the verification process, optimize your ads, and help you stand out in your local market.

Get in touch with us today and take your business to the top!

FAQs:

Q1. What is the difference between Google Guaranteed and Google Screened?

Google Guaranteed is for home service businesses and includes a money-back guarantee from Google, while Google Screened is for professional services and builds trust through background and license checks without a financial guarantee.

Q2. How much does it cost to get Google Guaranteed or Screened?

Both programs are free to apply, but you’ll pay per lead (not per click) once your ads go live through Local Services Ads. Costs vary by industry and location.

Q3. Can my business qualify for both Google Guaranteed and Screened?

No, businesses typically qualify for one based on their industry. Home services qualify for Google Guaranteed, while professional services like law or finance qualify for Google Screened.