10 Reasons Why Google Ads Get Disapproved

by Garry Viner on 
November 01, 2021 | 
Google Ads
Garry Viner

No one likes getting rejected – and it can feel particularly painful from the biggest search engine on the planet.

Let’s take a look at the most common reasons your Google Ads campaign might be getting knocked back, and how to fix the issue.

So you’ve planned your Google Ads campaign, developed your creative and submitted the ad for review, only to see it’s been marked as ‘Disapproved’.

As a Google Adwords agency, we come across many such instances while auditing ad accounts.

The first thing to remember is that there’s probably still hope for your carefully crafted ad; it’s just a matter of ticking the boxes. Google’s ad policies cover a range of requirements, so the next step is to hover over that information symbol and identify exactly what needs to change. Chances are, one of the following issues will apply.

So, what are the most common reasons why your Google Ads get disapproved?

1. Spelling or grammar issues

You might well find that spelling or grammar errors are blocking your way to successful posting. Repeated phrases can also be an issue. Take a detailed look at your ad copy, and iron out any errors before resubmitting.

2. Problematic punctuation

Exclamation points should be limited to just one instance in the body copy. Be sure to remove any emojis or non-standard punctuation such as asterisks or ellipses, as well as any use of symbols in place of words like @ for ‘at’.

3. Capitalisation concerns

It might be tempting to use ALL CAPS or rAnDoM CaPiTaLiSaTiOn to gain traction in your Google ad – but this can put the brakes on instead! Standard rules apply here, such as capitalising the first letter of proper nouns such as specific people and places.

4. Prohibited content

This is a simple one; Google ads will be rejected if they include adult-oriented content, counterfeit goods, dangerous products or services, offensive or derogatory content or products that enable dishonest behaviour.

5. CTA complications

Your call to action really matters. Omit any CTAs that include the word ‘click’ as in, ‘click here’. If you want to include a phone number use call extensions, because simply including the number or an email address in your ad copy will see it rejected.

6. URL issues

The root of your display URL needs to match that of the destination URL, and any redirects to a different domain will be flagged. Google also assesses the quality of your post-click landing page, so you’ll want to be sure this is fully functional and includes enough relevant content.

7. Copyright infringements

Google will put a stop to your ad if you’re unauthorised to use copyrighted content. If you do have legal authorisation to use copyrighted content, you can apply for certification to advertise.

8. Misrepresentation

Ads need to be authentic, clear and provide useful information, and any creative designed to deceive or provide misleading information about products, services or businesses just won’t fly.

9. Unsubstantiated claims

If you’re claiming your business or offering is the #1 in anything, you’ll need substantiation or a link from a third party proving the case. Otherwise, focus in on other benefits or features instead.

10. Unsuitable data practices

If you’re using remarketing, make sure you have a privacy policy in place that lets people know how to block any unwanted cookies. Good data practices are key for Google advertising.

Bonus reason: It could be a bug

Of course, if your ad doesn’t breach any of Google’s ad policies then there’s a good chance your ad has been disapproved in error. Google Ads is an incredibly complex and ever-evolving platform, and the odd mislabelled ad can happen from time to time. If you’re confident your ad campaign is playing by the rules, you can appeal the decision or contact Google Support.

To truly optimise your advertising, it helps to work with a local google ads agency in Sydney with a proven track record. Call Rocket Agency today on 1300 059 620 and we can arrange a free audit of your Google Ads or your broader marketing strategy.

Garry
Garry Viner
Co-Founder and Senior SEO Strategist | Rocket Agency

As the Co-Founder and Senior SEO Strategist at Rocket Agency, Garry has worked to launch and improve marketing campaigns for leading Australian and international brands including Meriton Suites, Luna Park and Medecins Sans Frontieres.

Garry combines his solid mathematical background with a grounding in actuarial studies with business insight and empathy to create cutting-edge marketing campaigns. As a lifelong learner, he stays up-to-date with martech trends in this fast-moving digital space. At Rocket, he has led a team of PPC and SEO specialists that have run award-winning ad campaigns.

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