Yelp for Business
Review ManagementFree business profile management and review response on Yelp
Overview
Yelp for Business is the free business management platform for the Yelp review site, which processes over 280 million unique visitors monthly. While Yelp started as a crowd-sourced review platform in 2004, the business dashboard gives local businesses basic tools to manage their presence on what remains one of the most influential review platforms for local search.
Unlike paid review management platforms like Birdeye or Podium, Yelp for Business focuses specifically on managing your Yelp presence rather than aggregating reviews across multiple platforms. The free tier covers essential profile management, review responses, and basic analytics. This makes it accessible to small businesses that can't justify paying for comprehensive review management software.
The platform sits in an interesting position in the local SEO ecosystem. While Google Business Profile is more critical for search visibility, Yelp listings frequently appear in Google's local pack results, especially for restaurants, services, and retail businesses. This means optimizing your Yelp presence isn't just about Yelp traffic—it's about capturing Google searchers too.
Key features
Business Profile Management
Update business hours, photos, contact info, and descriptions. Basic but essential for maintaining accurate local business listings.
Review Response Tool
Respond to customer reviews directly through the dashboard. Critical for reputation management and local SEO ranking factors.
Basic Analytics
Track profile views, customer actions, and review performance. Limited compared to dedicated analytics tools but useful for understanding Yelp traffic.
Photo and Video Upload
Upload business photos and videos to enhance profile appeal. Visual content directly impacts click-through rates from search results.
Customer Messages
Receive and respond to direct customer inquiries through Yelp messaging. Helps capture leads that might otherwise go to competitors.
Check-In Offers
Create special offers for customers who check in on Yelp. Drives foot traffic and encourages repeat business.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Business Account | Free | Profile management, review responses, basic analytics, photo uploads |
| Yelp Ads | Starting at $5/day | Sponsored search placements, call-to-action buttons, competitor targeting |
FAQ
Does Yelp for Business help with local SEO rankings?
Yes, having a complete Yelp profile with regular review responses can improve local search visibility. Yelp listings often rank in Google local pack results, making profile optimization important for local SEO.
Can I remove negative reviews on Yelp?
No, you cannot remove legitimate negative reviews, but you can respond to them professionally. Yelp may remove reviews that violate their guidelines, but this is rare and at their discretion.
Is Yelp for Business really free?
The basic business profile and management tools are completely free. Paid features include advertising placements and enhanced visibility options starting at $5 per day.
How does Yelp compare to Google Business Profile for local SEO?
Google Business Profile is more critical for local SEO since Google dominates search, but Yelp still drives significant traffic and appears in Google results. Managing both platforms is essential for comprehensive local presence.
How does Yelp for Business compare?
Review Sentiment
125 reviews across 1 source
Bottom line
Worth adding to your stack at zero cost. Yelp for Business delivers essential platform for local SEO, but aggressive sales tactics for paid advertising limits how far you can take it.
People love
- +Essential platform for local SEO — Yelp reviews influence local search rankings
- +Free business profile with photos, hours, and service descriptions
- +Yelp Connect feature allows posting updates and offers to followers
Common complaints
- –Aggressive sales tactics for paid advertising — frequent upselling calls
- –Review filter algorithm hides legitimate positive reviews — frustrating for businesses
- –Advertising costs are high relative to conversion rates compared to Google Ads
Last updated Feb 2026