How To Fix No Google Ads Account Linked?

If you’ve encountered the “No Google Ads account linked” error in your Google Merchant Center (GMC) account, you are not alone. This GMC error is common and can prevent prevent you from advertising your products in Shopping ads (Product Listing Ads) and free product listings. It’s a simple linking problem that can seriously impact your ad visibility, performance, and ROI.

Few things to review in your Google Merchant Center account: verify user access, check for expired or incomplete billing, and see if your service account has been correctly linked to the Google Ads account. 

Still not working? Our guide is the answer. In this guide, we will walk you through:

• Why linking your accounts is crucial for running Google Shopping ads.
• The most common reasons behind the “No Google Ads account linked” error. 
• A detailed, step-by-step walkthrough to fix the problem. 
• Troubleshooting tips and when to escalate the issue to Google Support. 

Whether you’re setting things up for the first time or trying to resolve a linking error, this guide will give you everything you need to ensure your accounts are properly connected and ready to drive results. To directly jump to the common reasons and fixes section, click here.

Understanding Google Ads Account Linking

‘No Google Ads account linked’ is an error message you may encounter in your Google Merchant Center account , it means you do not have a Google Ads account connected to your Google Merchant Center account. To put it simply, it implies that you haven’t sent a link request from your Google Merchant Center account, or the admin did not accept the request from the Google Ads account. 

Connecting Google Ads and Google Merchant Center accounts is crucial for running ads. Only after you connect both accounts will you be able to create a Shopping ad campaign or free listings. This is because they use product information present in your Google Merchant Center.

Additionally, linking both accounts will enable you to connect to your Business Manager. The Business Manager platform is responsible for linking to all other apps in your Business Manager account.

What is Google Business Manager? Google Business Manager is a platform that helps businesses centralize the management of various Google properties such as Google Ads, GMC, etc. For example, when you link your Google Ads to Business Manager, it can automatically link to all other apps managed within that Business Manager, such as Google Merchant Center and Google Business Profile. You don’t have to initiate the linking process from each platform individually.

 

Common Reasons & Fixes for No Google Ads Account Linked Error

Common reasons for getting the ‘No Google Ads account linked’ error are:

Reason 1: Link Request Not Sent 

You have not sent a link request to your Google Ads account from your Google Merchant Center account. Or the Google Ads account admin never approved it.

How to fix? 

To fix it, ensure you send a link request from your Google Merchant Center account and approve it in your Google Ads account. You can also initiate the process from your Google Ads account to connect GMC account.

Reason 2: No Admin-level Access

As mentioned earlier, the other reason could be that you linked your Google Ads account but do not have admin-level access.

How to fix? 

Request Admin access in Google Ads, or ask someone with Admin privileges to either add you or approve the link.

Note: If you’re using a Google Ads manager (MCC) account, the manager account needs “link-management permission” for the relevant payments profile. Only one manager account can have this specific permission per payment profile.

Here’s how to check your permissions:

In your Google Ads account >> navigate to settings > click ‘Access and security’ >> under the “Users” tab, you’ll see a list of users and their assigned roles. Ensure your user has “Admin” access. If not, you must ask an existing admin to grant you the necessary permissions.

Reason 3: 2-Step Verification 

Some Ad accounts require 2‑Step Verification before accepting link requests.

To fix it, you can enable 2‑Step Verification on your Google account or have the Google Ads admin remove that restriction, then retry linking.

You can enable 2-step verification by navigating to your Google account settings >> select ‘Security’ >> click on the forward arrow mark > as shown in the image below >> and turn on/off.

Reason 4: Account Suspension/Policy Violation

Google Merchant Center will reject the connection if the account you’re linking is suspended due to adult products, health products, or any other policy violation.

How to fix?

You can resolve the suspension by complying with the policies and appealing the policy decision after making necessary changes to your account and ads. After these changes, wait till Google activates your account and then try linking the accounts.

Note: You can also submit an appeal if you believe Google made an error or if you’re correcting the destination.

Reason 5: USER_PERMISSION_DENIED Error

This error occurs when there is no link between the manager account used for authentication and the client account you’re trying to access, or if your OAuth2 credentials don’t belong to a user with access. 

How to fix?

• Ensure your manager account is correctly linked to the client account and that your authentication credentials are valid for a user with access to the client account. 
• If using the Google Ads API, confirm you’re including the correct login-customer-id in your API request headers.
• Add yourself as a “Standard” user in the Google Ads account. You can do so in the Access and Security settings. Then, try to accept the link request; doing so can resolve permission-related issues.

Reason 6: Max Pending Invitations Reached

Link requests might also fail with “Too many pending invites.” Therefore, unaccepted or expired invitations will result in a “No Google Ads Account Linked” status.

Note: Google Ads limits 20 simultaneous pending link requests per manager account.

How to fix? 

• If you’ve sent a linking invitation, ensure the recipient has accepted it within the 30-day window. 
• Review and withdraw old pending invitations, then re-send the request.

Reason 7: Account Type Mismatches

An account type mismatch occurs when you connect two accounts using the wrong process. This means that you will have to follow specific steps if you wish to connect a Google Ads account to a Business Profile. The steps for one linking process might differ from another. 

For instance, linking the Google Merchant Center account to Google Ads and linking Google Ads with the Business profile have different processes; the same goes for other tools such as Analytics, MCC account, etc.

When you try to connect two accounts using the incorrect process, you might get errors like ‘permission denied’ or ‘Google Ads account not linked.’

How to identify Mismatches?

In your Google Ads account >> under settings >> click ‘Access and security’ >> select the Managers section >> You will see a pending request. If it’s declined, it could mean:

• The wrong type of account tried to send the invitation.
• The Customer ID was wrong.
• There’s a permission issue. 

How to fix?

The solution is to always follow the specific, correct process for linking each particular type of account. Remember, not all linkings work the same way.

It is important to note that you might encounter a particular error as an issue or warning in your account, and for other advertisers, it might result in an error. Whether you get it as an error or a warning, it is essential to resolve it promptly to avoid disapprovals or account suspensions in the future.  Google shows a particular error as an issue, error, or warning based on your account history, violations, etc. These issues are indicated with different colors:  Red – for serious violations or account suspension. Yellow – indicates warnings. Blue – indicates informational content.

Contacting Google Support for Assistance

Please contact the Google Support team only when you have tried all the above fixes and cannot resolve the linking issues. 

Before reaching out to the team, know that you must have the following information or details handy:

• Google Ads Account ID
• Associated Email address
• Description of the issue
• Error messages and screenshots
• Steps taken to resolve the issue
• Google Business Profile Information (if applicable)
• Preferred contact method and availability

Step-by-Step Guide to Link a Google Ads Account

The process to connect Google Ads and Google Merchant Center accounts happens in your Google Merchant Center or Google Ads account.

Important: If your Google Merchant Center account or Google Ads account is associated with the same Google Account, you can connect to either of them quickly; if it is not, you can send a link request. Let’s look at the process below:

We will be looking at two methods to connect both accounts. The first method discusses how to connect to Google Ads from Google Merchant Center, and the second one is about connecting a Google Merchant Center account from Google Ads. 

Method 1: Connect Google Ads from Google Merchant Center

You can create a new Google Ads account or link an existing one to Google Merchant Center to complete this process. 

Option 1: Link to a Google Ads account you own in Merchant Center

Step 1: In your Google Merchant Center >> click the ‘Settings & tools’ icon >> select ‘Apps & services’ >> under ‘Google services’ >> select ‘Add service’ >> choose Google Ads, and click ‘Next.’

Step 2: Select the type of account you want to link. You can choose from your account, a new account, or an account you don’t manage.

Step 3: Let’s now choose the ‘Your account’ option. Upon selecting this option, you will see a pop-up window where you can link your account.

Step 4: You can also review the status immediately after linking the accounts.

Note: You can also choose to connect ‘only Google Merchant Center’ to the Google Ads account instead of all other accounts. To do so, select ‘Link to Merchant Center Only’ and then select ‘Link.’

Option 2: Link a new Google Ads account in Google Merchant Center

In your Google Merchant Center >> click Settings & tools icon >> select Apps & services >> under ‘Google services’ >> select Add service >> select Google Ads, and click Next >> In the pop-up window, select the new account you want to link >> select Next >> click ‘Link.’

The process is the same as shown for the first option, except that you will have to select ‘new account’ and proceed with the rest of the process.

Option 3: Link a Google Ads account you don’t manage 

In your Google Merchant Center >> click Setting & tools icon >> select Apps & services >> under ‘Google services’ >> select Add service >> select Google Ads and click Next >> In the pop-up window, select ‘Account you don’t manage’>> Enter the Google Ads customer ID, then select Next >> and click Link.

After linking, review the status of the link request.

The next step in linking Google Ads and the Google Merchant Center account is accepting the link request in Google Ads.

Note: You must be an admin or ask someone with admin-level access to the Google Ads account to accept the link request.

Here’s how to approve the link request in Google Ads:-

In your Google Ads account >> click Tools >> click Data Manager >> under “Connected products”, find “Google Merchant Center”, then select ‘Manage and link’ >> select the “Received” tab >> locate the account you wish to link >> in the ‘Actions’ column, choose ‘Review’ >> and select ‘Approve.’

Note: The ‘Review’ option is faded under the ‘Actions’ column because the user does not have admin-level access to their Google Ads account. With admin-level access, you can review and approve the request.

Method 2: Connect to Google Merchant Center from Google Ads

In your Google Ads account >> click ‘Tools’ >> select ‘Data manager’ >> in the ‘Connected products’ tab and under the ‘Featured products’ section, find “Google Merchant Center” and choose your preferred linking method.

You have two options:

1. Linking Business Manager to Google Ads: When you select this option, the Google Ads account is linked to all apps managed within your Business Manager.
2. Linking Merchant Center to Google Ads: This option links only Google Merchant Center and Google Ads. Ensure that you select the correct Merchant Center account to link.

Common Misconceptions about Linking Accounts

Misconception: Once you link Google Merchant Center and Google Ads accounts, your ads run independently.
Reality: Linking only enables ads to access your product feed. You still need to manually set up and launch campaigns in Google Ads.

Misconception: After linking, product data quality doesn’t matter.
Reality: Accurate data, such as titles, GTINs, descriptions, price, etc., matters after linking both accounts. Please note that poor data quality leads to disapprovals or low visibility.

Further Reading:   How to fix GTIN errors How to optimize product titles in Google Shopping Feed

Misconception: Linking a manager (MCC) account connects all sub‑accounts.
Reality: Manager accounts cannot be linked—only individual Ad accounts can connect to Google Merchant Center.

Misconception: Once linked, Google Merchant Center and Google Ads share everything automatically.
Reality: While ads can use product data from Google Merchant Center. Google Merchant Center does not receive ad performance data. Additionally, linking the accounts doesn’t fix or update product feed issues; you must manually resolve them.

Misconception: Linking the accounts determines how ads are targeted or bid automatically.
Reality: Linking process only gives access to product data. You are required to set up targeting, bidding, and placements.

Misconception: Linking covers policy or data quality issues.
Reality: Even after linking both accounts, violations like misrepresentation or misleading promotions can still result in disapprovals or account suspension.

Best Practices in Linking Accounts

• When initiating a linking request, enter the exact Google Ads Customer ID of the account you wish to link. Even a single incorrect digit will prevent the link from establishing.
• Ensure consistent time zones and currency settings across linked accounts to avoid data discrepancy issues in the future.
• Verify account ownership to ensure legitimate access and authorized linking. When Google sends you a notification to verify your account, act on it immediately.
• Newly created Google Ads or Google Merchant Center accounts may be temporarily ineligible. Wait for at least 7 days before attempting to link, and ensure the account has basic settings configured, such as billing, time zone, etc.
• You cannot link a Google Ads MCC account directly to Google Merchant Center. Only individual Google Ads accounts are eligible to link.
• Before linking, configure billing, set up a campaign, and budget in your Google Ads. You can link immediately after active billing, regardless of daily or monthly budget amounts.

Conclusion

Linking Google Merchant Center and Google Ads account is your doorway to launching Shopping ads and free product listings. The process becomes seamless when you follow the right steps and resolve issues promptly.

Key takeaways include:

• Go to GMC → Settings & Tools → Apps & Services → Google Ads → Add Service → Next and complete the linking process.
• In Google Ads → Tools → Access & Security, verify your role is Admin.
• If not, request admin access or ask an admin to approve your link.
• Select the linking direction that fits your setup—direct account link for simpler setups or Business Manager for multi-app management.
• Match time zones and currencies across linked accounts.
• Wait 7+ days after creating new accounts before linking.
• Use the exact Customer ID.
• Link only individual Ads accounts, not MCCs.
• Keep permissions consistent when adding new users.
• Document your linking setup and recheck monthly to prevent disconnects after account or user changes.
• Use the troubleshooting section to resolve common roadblocks such as permissions, verification, and account mismatches.
• Contact Google Support if you’ve exhausted all steps and can’t link the accounts.

FAQs

What if my Google Ads account is not linked after following the guide? 

In most cases, you should be able to fix the linking issue by following the step-by-step process or addressing the common issues listed above. If you cannot resolve it, double-check permissions and account settings and consider contacting Google support for further assistance.

Can I link multiple Google Ads accounts to one Google Analytics property? 

You can link multiple Google Ads accounts to a single Google Analytics property for comprehensive data analysis. You can do so by adding individual ad accounts or through an MCC account.

What should I do if I encounter a technical error during the linking process? 

Clear your browser cache, use a different browser, try in incognito mode, or disable browser extensions. Additionally, check for Google account permissions and contact the Google support team if the issue persists.

How can I ensure my accounts remain linked after changes? 

Regularly verify linked accounts and avoid changing account IDs or removing admin access.

What are the benefits of linking Google Ads with other Google services?

Linking Google Ads with other Google services like Google Analytics, Google Play, and Google Merchant Center lets you view the performance of your conversions, showcase products on Shopping ads and free listings, and ultimately increase visibility, traffic, and sales.

Check Out These Related Articles:

• Personalized Advertising: Personal Hardships Error on Google Merchant Center
• Ultimate Guide to Fix the Invalid Business Name Error in GMC
• How to Fix Google Merchant Suspension Due to Health Products?
• How to fix Mismatched Domains in the Google Merchant Center?
• Optimizing Google Ads Audience Targeting