Citation Building

Local Citation Building Checklist

Use this checklist to keep citation work consistent across one business or many client locations.

Reviewed for current provider information: September 2026
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Before you start

Confirm the public business name, address, primary phone number, website, business categories, hours, public email, description, logo, and photos. Decide which data fields are mandatory and who approves changes.

Record historical business names, addresses, and phone numbers so they can be recognized during the audit.

Audit

Search current and historical NAP variations. Record existing profile URLs. Mark inaccurate fields. Identify duplicates. Note profiles that cannot be accessed. Flag platforms that require owner verification.

Prioritize major platforms and high-visibility directory profiles before long-tail directories.

Build and update

Correct existing profiles before creating duplicates. Add missing core listings. Add relevant local and industry directories. Use accurate categories and hours. Complete useful profile fields. Document login ownership and verification state.

Keep proof of submitted work, but do not confuse submission proof with guaranteed acceptance.

Quality control

Spot-check the live profile after publication. Confirm the displayed NAP and URL. Revisit rejected or verification-pending submissions. Store credentials securely. Schedule a recheck after any business change.