Applying for Google AdSense correctly is an important step that many beginners rush through. A properly filled application with a well-prepared site dramatically increases your approval odds. This guide walks you through the entire AdSense account setup process step by step.
Before You Apply: Pre-Application Checklist
- ✅ Website has custom domain (not free subdomain like blogspot.com or wordpress.com)
- ✅ HTTPS/SSL certificate is active
- ✅ Site is at least 1-3 months old
- ✅ Has 20+ original, high-quality articles
- ✅ Privacy Policy page exists and is linked from footer
- ✅ About and Contact pages are in place
- ✅ Site is mobile responsive
- ✅ No prohibited content anywhere on site
🔍 Verify First
Before applying, use our free AdSense checker to confirm all these boxes are checked. It takes 30 seconds.
Step 1: Go to AdSense.Google.com
Visit adsense.google.com and click "Get started". Sign in with the Google account you want associated with your AdSense account. Use a professional Gmail account — this account will be permanently linked to your AdSense.
Step 2: Enter Your Website URL
Enter your full website URL including HTTPS: https://yoursite.com. Double-check the URL for typos — this is the site that will be reviewed. Then choose whether you want AdSense to optimize your ads (recommended: yes) and your email preferences.
Step 3: Select Country and Accept Terms
Choose the country associated with your payment address. This cannot be changed later, so ensure it's correct. Read and accept the Terms & Conditions.
Step 4: Create Your Account
Click "Create account". You'll be taken to the AdSense dashboard and see a "Connect your site to AdSense" screen.
Step 5: Add the AdSense Code to Your Site
Google will show you an Auto Ads code snippet. This must be added to the <head> section of every page on your site. Options:
- WordPress: Use Site Kit by Google plugin (easiest)
- Any site: Paste the code in your header.html or equivalent
- Shopify: Use the Google channel app or paste in theme.liquid
Step 6: Click "I've placed the code on my site"
After adding the code, return to AdSense and click "I've placed the code". This starts the review process. Google will verify the code is present on your site within a few hours.
Step 7: Complete Your Payment Profile
While waiting for review, complete your payment profile:
- Go to Payments → Payment info
- Enter your full legal name (must match your tax ID)
- Enter your address (used for PIN verification later)
- Add your bank account details
- Submit required tax information (W-8BEN for non-US publishers)
What Happens During Review?
During review (1-14 days), Google shows "Getting ready" status on your dashboard. You may see Public Service Announcements instead of paid ads during this period. This is normal. Once approved, you'll receive an email and your status changes to "Active."
If You're Rejected
Read the rejection email carefully. Most rejections relate to insufficient content, policy violations, or navigational issues. Fix the specific problems mentioned and reapply (there's no limit on reapplication attempts).