FAQs: COVID-19 Ad Credits for Google Ads Small and Medium-sized Businesses

On March 27, 2020, Google announced an $800+ million commitment to support small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), health organizations and governments, and health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of that $800+ million total, Google is giving SMBs worldwide $340 million in ad credits, which can be used at any point until the end of 2020 across our Google Ads platforms.

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the COVID-19 Google Ads Credits including if you’re eligible, and when ad credits are being rolled out.

What is Google doing to help SMBs?

In addition to providing $340 million in ad credits, Google also set up a fund that will support NGOs and financial institutions around the world to help provide small businesses with access to capital. This is in addition to the $15 million in cash grants Google.org is already providing to nonprofits to help bridge these gaps for SMBs. Google is also providing $20 million in ad grants to community financial institutions specifically to run public service announcements on relief funds and other resources for SMBs.

Why is Google offering ad credits to small and medium businesses?

Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of our communities. They represent about 90 percent of all businesses and more than half of employment worldwide, according to the World Bank. COVID-19 has posed a particular challenge to these businesses, who may be facing closures and declining revenue even as they find ways to support and protect their employees. Through ad credits, Google hopes to alleviate some of the cost to stay in touch with their customers.

Who is eligible for the Google Ads COVID-19 ad credits?

The ad credits will be available to small and medium businesses, who advertise directly with Google or through partners, around the world with active accounts since the beginning of 2019. Credits will be provided to SMB advertisers that have been active advertisers since Jan 1, 2019 and comply with all Google Ads T&Cs.

How and when will eligible customers receive the COVID-19 ad credits?

Small and medium businesses worldwide that have been active advertisers since the beginning of 2019 will be informed in the coming months through notifications within their Google Ads account.

How long are the ad credits valid for?

This Google Ads credit can be used at any point throughout the year and will expire on December 31, 2020. Any unused portion will be removed from Google Ads accounts.

Will the ad credit work across all of Google’s channels (e.g., Search, YouTube, Display, etc.)?

Yes. These ad credits will be applicable across the Google Ads platform including Search, Display, and YouTube as well as all campaign types.

How can you find out if you’re receiving Google Ads COVID-19 ad credits?

Advertisers receiving ad credits will be notified in the coming months. Google is in the process of building these specialized credits into Google Ads accounts, therefore notifications will not show immediately.

---

Based in Austin, TX, Bound By offers a variety of digital marketing services, including Google Ads, to our clients. We offer a free consultation and can discuss the best plan of action based on your individual business needs. Let’s talk about your project!