How to Get AdSense Approval: A Step-by-Step Checklist

For many bloggers, Google AdSense represents a significant milestone—the first step towards monetizing their hard work. However, the path to approval can often feel like a maze of unwritten rules and vague rejection emails. The infamous "low-value content" message has discouraged countless creators. The truth is, getting AdSense approval isn't about luck; it's about preparation and meeting Google's core requirements for a healthy, trustworthy website. This checklist will guide you through the essential steps to prepare your site and significantly increase your chances of getting approved on the first try.

1. Focus on High-Quality, Original Content

This is the most critical factor. Google's primary goal is to provide its users with valuable, relevant information. Your website must do the same.

• Originality is Key: Never copy content from other websites. Every article must be your own work. Use plagiarism checkers if you're unsure.
• Demonstrate E-E-A-T: Write content that showcases your Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. Write about topics you genuinely know.
• Solve a Problem: Your content should provide real value by answering a question, solving a problem, or teaching the reader something new.

2. Ensure Sufficient Content and Website Age

While there's no magic number, a brand new site with only a handful of posts is likely to be rejected.

• Number of Posts: Aim for at least 15-20 high-quality, detailed blog posts (1000+ words each) before applying.
• Website Age: Applying with a site that's at least 1-2 months old and has been consistently updated is a good practice. This shows Google you're serious about your project.

3. Create the Essential Legal Pages

This is a non-negotiable requirement. A website without these pages is seen as unprofessional and untrustworthy by Google.

• Privacy Policy: You MUST have a Privacy Policy that discloses how you collect, use, and protect user data, especially your use of Google AdSense cookies.
• About Us: An "About Us" page helps build trust and tells Google and your users who is behind the website.
• Contact Us: You must provide a clear way for users to contact you, such as an email address or a contact form.

Creating these pages can be challenging. That's why we built the Legal Page Generator—to help you create comprehensive, AdSense-ready documents for free.

4. Master Website Navigation and User Experience (UX)

Your site structure should be logical and user-friendly. A confusing site gets rejected.

• Clear Menu: Have a clear navigation menu in your header that links to all important sections (Home, About, Contact, Blog, Categories).
• No Broken Links: Ensure all links on your site work correctly.
• Mobile-Friendly Design: Your website must be fully responsive and easy to use on mobile devices.

5. Technical SEO and Website Ownership

You need to prove to Google that you own the site and have it set up correctly.

• Custom Domain: Avoid applying with a free subdomain (e.g., yoursite.wordpress.com). A custom domain (e.g., yoursite.com) is a sign of professionalism.
• Google Search Console: Add your website to Google Search Console to monitor its health, submit your sitemap, and prove ownership.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating a genuinely valuable and professional website, you align yourself with Google's goals. Good luck!