Google Ads account

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Topic summary

A store owner is being charged $850 by their manager to open a Google Ads account that appears US-based, raising concerns about potential overcharging or fraud.

Key Issues Identified:

  • Google Ads accounts are completely free to create—no setup fees exist
  • The $850 charge has no legitimate basis and is a major red flag
  • Requesting a detailed cost breakdown is essential before any payment

Location Concerns:

  • Setting up a US-based account when the business isn’t actually located there violates Google’s policies
  • This misrepresentation could result in account suspension or permanent bans
  • Legitimate US targeting can be configured without additional costs

Recommended Actions:

  • Reassess the current business relationship given the bad experience
  • Seek second opinions from other marketing professionals or agencies
  • Consider alternative platforms like Meta Ads (Facebook/Instagram) as cost-effective options
  • Avoid large upfront payments without verified credibility and transparent pricing

The consensus is that this arrangement appears problematic and potentially fraudulent.

Summarized with AI on October 31. AI used: claude-sonnet-4-5-20250929.
1

Hi guys, I have a guy manageing my Store, he is asking me for $850 to open a new google ads account. He says he wants it to be showing that it is based in the US. I am having a real bad expirence with this business!!

Any advice you guys can offer would be appreciated!!

2

Hi @Irishdave-60 ,

It sounds like you’re facing a challenging situation. Here’s some advice:

  1. Google Ads Account Costs:

    • Opening a Google Ads account is free. The only costs should come from your ad budget and possibly a management fee if someone is handling it for you. Charging $850 just to open an account is highly unusual and could be a red flag.
    • google ads charge according to your plan for advertisements but not so much.

  2. Business Location in Ads:

    • A US-based account may help target US audiences more effectively, but this shouldn’t require significant additional costs. If your business already operates in the US, you can set your Google Ads account location accordingly without complications.

  3. Evaluate the Partnership:

    • If you’re having a bad experience and trust is eroding, it might be worth reassessing your arrangement. A good service provider will be transparent about fees and deliver measurable results.

  4. Protect Yourself:

    • Ask for detailed breakdowns of costs and expected outcomes.
    • Avoid making large upfront payments unless you’re confident in the person’s credibility and work history.

Got it! If you found my suggestions helpful, please consider liking or marking it as a solution.
Your feedback is appreciated! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, just let me know.

Thanks & Regards
Akshay Bhatt

3

As an alternative to setting up a Google Ads account with a US-based location, I recommend exploring Meta Ads (Facebook/Instagram Ads) as a cost-effective and powerful platform for reaching your target audience. With Meta Ads, you can target specific demographics, locations, and interests, and it can be a great way to grow your brand globally without the need for complicated or expensive account setups.Thank you

4

Hi @Irishdave-60

This situation raises some concerns.

First, creating a Google Ads account is free—Google doesn’t charge for it. The $850 he’s asking for isn’t a standard setup fee, so it’s worth asking for a detailed breakdown of where that money is going.

Second, wanting the account to appear US-based (if your business isn’t in the US) could be risky. Google has strict policies, and misrepresenting location might lead to account suspensions or even a ban.

Since you’re already having a bad experience with this business, it’s worth stepping back and reassessing. You might want to get a second opinion from another marketing professional or agency to make sure you’re making the best decision.

Hope this can help you!

Best regards,

Daisy.