Google AD Account Issues

New Google AD Account Issues: Unable To Add Payment Method

Google AD Account Issues
Google AD Account Issues

As digital marketing experts, we’re always prepared to adapt to changes and challenges, but the recent roadblocks with Google Ads account setups have been particularly frustrating. Over the past month, many marketers in Kenya, Uganda, and a few other regions have encountered an unexpected issue when creating new Google Ads accounts. Specifically, the process stalls at the payment method setup stage, displaying an error message: “Something went wrong.”

In this post, we’ll explore what’s happening, why it may be limited to specific regions, and what steps you can take to work around this problem in the meantime.

The Current Google AD Account Issues

Setting up Google Ads (whether it’s for Search, Display, YouTube, or Shopping campaigns) always begins with the creation of a Google Ads account and a Smart Campaign. This setup traditionally includes a final step where users add a payment method. Unfortunately, for many of us setting up accounts in Kenya and Uganda, this is where things go wrong. The payment screen encounters an error, blocking us from completing the account setup.

See below error message.

Why Is This Happening?

While Google has not made an official statement regarding the problem, the issue seems to affect accounts created in certain regions, primarily in East Africa. This may indicate a backend issue limited to specific servers or processes within Google’s system. Because this issue is impacting a smaller subset of users, it might take longer for Google to implement a fix.

What’s Been Tried So Far?

To get around this issue, we’ve tried various approaches, including:

  1. Using Google MCN Accounts: Multi-client accounts are often flexible but have been unsuccessful here.
  2. Setting Up via Shopify: Creating Google Ads accounts from the backend of Shopify (for eCommerce clients) has not resolved the problem.
  3. Google Ads Mobile App: Attempts to create and complete the setup directly from the Google Ads mobile app also failed.
  4. Adding Payment Method in Gmail: Manually adding the payment method through Google’s Gmail settings didn’t work.
  5. Contacting Google Support: Despite reaching out for assistance, we’re yet to receive a helpful response.
  6. Patience and Persistence: Sometimes, persistence pays off—but not this time.

What Can You Do?

Until Google addresses this issue, here are some potential workarounds:

  1. Get Assistance from Contacts in Other Regions: If you have friends or associates in areas not experiencing the same issue, they may be able to set up an account on your behalf.
  2. Use an Extra Google Ads Account: If someone has an unused Google Ads account, they may be able to share it, allowing you to sidestep the setup error temporarily.
  3. Seek Expert Help: I offer consulting and support services to help manage account setup difficulties, though it’s important to note that some workarounds could affect business verification status with Google.
  4. Google Support: Call the Google support team or go through Google support channel. They might update what the issue and how to go about it.

The Takeaway

If you’re facing this issue, know that you’re not alone. The current Google Ads account setup problem is frustrating, particularly for businesses eager to launch campaigns. While we await a solution, these workaround tips may help you keep things moving.

If you need expert assistance with this or any other digital marketing challenges, feel free to reach out. We’ll continue to monitor this issue closely and provide updates as soon as they’re available.

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