By Shad Super in Questions —

How Can You Track the Status of a Removal Request Made Through the Removals Tool?

Summary

To track the status of a removal request made through Google's Removals Tool, you need to access the tool using your Google account. Within the tool, you can view the current status, detailed progress, and any actions you may need to take. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to track your removal request.

Accessing the Removals Tool

First, navigate to the Google Search Console Removals Tool and log in with the Google account used to make the request.

Viewing Your Request Status

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to view the status of your request:

  1. Log in to the Google Search Console Removals Tool.
  2. Navigate to the "Removals" section from the main dashboard.
  3. Select the "Submitted Requests" tab to view all your pending, approved, and denied requests.
  4. Locate the specific removal request you want to track. You will see different statuses such as "Pending," "Approved," or "Denied."

Status Definitions

  • Pending: Your request is being evaluated by Google. The review process might take a few days to a few weeks.
  • Approved: Your request has been accepted, and the content will be removed from Google's search results.
  • Denied: Your request has been denied. Typically, Google will provide a reason for the denial.

Possible Actions

If your request is denied or if additional actions are required, here’s what you can do:

Submitting Additional Information

If Google requests more information regarding your removal request, ensure to provide all required details accurately. This may include evidence supporting your request.

Appealing a Denied Request

If your request is denied and you believe it was in error or if you can provide additional evidence, you can submit an appeal. Follow the guidelines and steps provided in the notification for submitting an appeal.

Notifications and Updates

Google typically sends email notifications to the account used to submit the request, providing updates about the status change of your removal request. Ensure that the email address associated with your Google account is active and checked regularly.

Example

Consider a scenario where you submitted a removal request for outdated content appearing in search results. You logged in to the Removals Tool and found the status as “Pending.” Google later sent an email indicating the request is now "Approved," meaning the content will be removed in due course.

Further Reading and Resources