If your Google Ads account is part of the GCS High Touch billing policy, you’ve likely received an email about moving away from credit card payments. This guide is here to help you through that process, making sure everything goes smoothly.
We’ll cover understanding your payment choices, how to apply for monthly invoicing, and how to actually make the switch in your Google Ads account. The main goal is to keep your ads running without any interruptions.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory Change: Accounts under the GCS High Touch billing policy must switch from card payments to monthly invoicing or direct debit.
- Monthly Invoicing Explained: You’ll get an invoice each month, payable by check or wire transfer (or direct debit in the US), with set payment terms.
- Credit Line Required: To use monthly invoicing, you need an approved credit line from Google’s finance team.
- Timeline: You usually have about 30 days from the notification to make the change, or your account might be paused.
- Process: Apply for a credit line, accept the Master Services Agreement (MSA), and then update your payment method in Google Ads.
Understanding Monthly Invoicing
Google is updating its billing system to make things more consistent and reliable for everyone. This means clients on the GCS Ads policy need to start paying through monthly invoicing or direct debit. Monthly invoicing is pretty straightforward: you get an invoice every month, and you’ve got a set number of days to pay it, usually by check or wire transfer. If you’re in the US, direct debit is also an option. There’s no extra charge for using monthly invoicing, and your invoice will clearly state the payment options and the due date.
Applying for Your Credit Line
The first big step to getting set up with monthly invoicing is applying for a credit line. You’ll need to fill out a form, which you can find through the support link. Google’s finance team will review your application, much like a bank would check a loan application. You’ll need to provide details about your business, like your company name and address, and potentially business registration documents. It’s also important to list all the Google Ads accounts that will use this credit line. This helps them set an appropriate credit limit for your current and future needs. If you’re unsure about any of the information required, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. The review process can take a few business days, so it’s best to start this well before your deadline.
Accepting the Master Services Agreement (MSA)
Once your credit line gets approved, you’ll be given a new 12-digit payments profile ID. The next important step is to accept the Master Services Agreement, or MSA. This agreement will be sent to the main contact person you listed on your credit line application. You’ll need to accept it online. Without an accepted MSA, you can’t actually use the credit line, so make sure this is done promptly.
Finalising the Transition in Google Ads
After you’ve accepted the MSA, give it about 24 to 48 hours for a "Get Started" button to show up on your Google Ads billing page. To click this button, you’ll need to be an administrator. If you use an MCC account, log in to that first, then go into your Google Ads account and click the button. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the switch to monthly invoicing. If you don’t use an MCC, the account admin can just click the button directly. Before you finish, double-check the payments profile name to make sure it’s correct. The whole process usually only takes a few minutes. If the button doesn’t appear or you run into any other problems, get in touch with Google Ads support. They’re there to help you get through it smoothly.
These changes are designed to make your payment experience with Google Ads more secure and straightforward. For more details on billing, the Google Ads help centre is a good place to look.
