How to Get Accepted by Google AdSense: Do’s & Don’t Do’s

For many creators, Google AdSense is the first step into monetization. It feels simple: sign up, paste some code, and start earning when ads show on your website. But here’s the catch — not every site gets approved. In fact, most new publishers face rejection the first time they apply.

The good news? AdSense approval isn’t a mystery. Google has a checklist of requirements, and if you understand what they look for, your chances of approval go way up. The even better news? Most of the work you’ll do to get approved also makes your site stronger, more trustworthy, and better for readers.

This guide covers everything you should do before applying — and just as important, the common mistakes that almost guarantee rejection.

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Why Google Rejects Sites

Google isn’t being picky just for the sake of it. They want advertisers to feel confident that their ads will appear on legitimate, high-quality sites. That means:

• No spammy or thin content.
• No copied or scraped posts.
• No half-built, “under construction” sites.
• No dangerous, misleading, or illegal material.

Think of it like this: if you were a brand spending money on ads, would you want them showing on a site with five posts, broken pages, and no contact information? Probably not. That’s why approval standards exist.

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The Do’s: What to Do Before Applying

1. Publish Substantial, Original Content

AdSense looks at your site as a whole, not just one post. Aim for at least 20–25 high-quality posts, each 1,000+ words, before you apply.

• Make sure every post is original — no copy-paste from other sites.
• Focus on solving problems for readers. For example, instead of a short post on “Best Free WordPress Plugins,” write a long, detailed guide with examples and screenshots.
• Cover a mix of evergreen and practical topics.

2. Build Core Pages (About, Contact, Privacy, Terms)

Google wants to see that you’re running a legitimate site, not a fly-by-night project.

• About Page → Who are you? What’s the site about?
• Contact Page → A working form or email.
• Privacy Policy & Terms → Even if simple, they show responsibility. Free generators exist; just edit them for your site.

3. Clean Navigation & Design

Don’t underestimate design. If your site looks half-broken, Google notices.

• Use a clean theme (Blocksy, Astra, GeneratePress are fine).
• Make sure the menu is clear — readers should find posts easily.
• Avoid too many pop-ups or auto-playing videos.

4. Original Images (Where Possible)

You don’t need to be a photographer, but avoid a site that’s 100% stock photos. Use:

• Screenshots (especially for tutorials).
• Simple custom graphics (Canva works).
• Free copyright-safe images (Unsplash, Pexels).

5. Mobile-Friendly Layout

Most traffic is mobile now. If your site doesn’t adapt well, AdSense may reject you. Run Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test and fix any red flags.

6. Use a Custom Domain & Email

• Apply with a custom domain (yourname.com, not yourname.blogspot.com).
• A custom email (admin@yourdomain.com) adds extra trust.

7. Consistent Posting History

Sites with content dumped in one day look suspicious. Spread out publishing over weeks. Google values consistency.

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The Don’ts: Mistakes That Lead to Rejection

1. Don’t Apply Too Early

The biggest mistake is applying after publishing just 5–6 posts. Even if they’re good, it screams “unfinished site.”

2. Don’t Copy Content

Google checks. Even if you “rewrite” posts too closely, it may be flagged as duplicate.

3. Don’t Use Forbidden Niches

Certain topics almost guarantee rejection (and even bans later):

• Adult content.
• Piracy/downloads.
• Drugs, gambling, weapons.
• Misleading “get rich quick” schemes.

4. Don’t Overload With Ads Before Approval

Ironically, if you fill your site with affiliate ads or banners before getting into AdSense, it may hurt your approval chances. Keep it clean until you’re accepted.

5. Don’t Leave Broken Links or Empty Pages

Google crawlers check for dead ends. Delete placeholder “Hello World” posts or “Coming Soon” pages.

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Common Questions About AdSense Approval

How long does approval take?

Usually a few days to two weeks. If rejected, Google tells you why, and you can fix issues before reapplying.

Can I apply without traffic?

Yes. AdSense doesn’t require a specific traffic number, but traffic quality matters. Even 50–100 daily visitors is fine if the site is solid.

Do I need to be 18+?

Yes. You need to be legally allowed to enter into a contract with Google.

Can I reapply if rejected?

Absolutely. Fix the issues listed in the rejection email and reapply. Many publishers get approved on their second try.

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Example of a Site That Gets Approved

Imagine two new blogs:

• Site A has 25 posts, each detailed and original, a clear About page, contact info, and clean navigation. No shady niches.
• Site B has 6 short posts, a default WordPress theme with “Just another WordPress site” still in the header, no contact info, and a “Coming Soon” page.

Which one gets approved? Site A every single time.

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The TodaysFunda Take

Getting into Google AdSense isn’t complicated, but it does require patience and preparation. Don’t treat it like a quick check-box task. Treat it like setting up your home before guests arrive.

Do the basics right — solid content, essential pages, clean design — and you’ll almost always get in. Cut corners, and you’ll likely end up in the rejection pile.

Remember: approval is just step one. Once you’re in, real growth comes from traffic, smart ad placements, and keeping your site reader-first.