Too Good to Be True?

Advertisers Raise Concerns Over Misleading Google Ads Promotional Coupons

Google has long attracted new advertisers with enticing offers like "spend $500, get $500" in free ad credits. However, a growing number of small business owners and marketers report that these deals often come with hidden conditions, unclear rules, and last-minute denials, leaving them out of pocket and feeling deceived.

Unfulfilled Credits

Many advertisers spend the required amount, only to find the promised credit never materializes. They often discover too late that a special promo code was required at signup—a code they never received or weren't prompted to use.

"I tried applying the code, but I can’t anymore because I’m not a new user… So, I just lost $437 on this."

The Fine Print

Eligibility is strict: offers are for new customers only, must be applied within 14 days, and credits can take over a month to appear. Google reserves the right to cancel the offer for various reasons, even after the credit is applied.

"The optics on this are terrible... not only did the promised credit vanish, but my client lost trust."

Abrupt Ineligibility

Some businesses spend well over the required threshold, only to be told they are ineligible because their account is supposedly linked to a previous one. This denial often comes after significant ad spend has already occurred.

"Google rejected my $500 ad credit after letting me spend more than $1000... Who would think the giant tech company would scam people?"

Buyer Beware: Protect Your Budget

While Google Ads can be a powerful tool, these promotional credits serve as a cautionary tale. Before investing based on a coupon, thoroughly read all terms and conditions. Ensure you apply any codes exactly as instructed during account setup and confirm you qualify as a "new" advertiser. Don't bank on free money that may never arrive.