Your Google Ad Grants application has been approved, but you’re having trouble accessing your account? Don’t panic—you’re not alone! This detailed guide will walk you through step by step to resolve access issues and get you started using your free advertising credits. Follow our procedure to unlock your account and accelerate your mission.
- 1
Distinguish a Google Ads account from a Google Ad Grants account
- 2
Check the current status of your application
- 3
Complete the account creation process via email
- 4
Try logging in with your Google account
- 5
Try logging in with other admin accounts
- 6
Submit a recovery request to Google
1 – Distinguishing a Google Ads account from a Google Ad Grants account
Before diving in, it’s important to understand the difference between a Google Ads account and a Google Ad Grants account. Visually, both use a similar interface and require access through https://ads.google.com/. However, your Google Ad Grants account can only be created by the Google team once your application is approved through your Google for Nonprofits account.
There’s no need to create a Google Ads account on your own, as this will automatically result in a paid Google Ads account that cannot be converted into a Google Ad Grants account.
Tip: To ensure you’re in your Google Ad Grants account, check that the menu doesn’t display any billing information, as shown in the image below. Billing details are only visible in a paid Google Ads account.

2 – Verify that your application has been processed
For your Google Ad Grants account to be created by the Google team, your application must be approved. To check the status of your application, log in to your Google for Nonprofits account.
- Log in to your Google for Nonprofits account using this link.
- Check the application status. It should say “approved.”
- Note your Customer ID (CID) and the list of account administrators.
What is a CID? The CID is a unique identifier for your Google Ads account, allowing it to connect with other tools like Google Analytics. Share it only with trusted individuals, as it provides access to private information.
If the status is still pending, be patient! We know you’re eager to take advantage of this grant, but the application process can take time.
3 – Ensure the activation process is complete
When your application is approved by the Google support team, you’ll receive two emails from [email protected].
Important : This is the only way to create a Google Ad Grants account. If you attempt to create an account without these emails, you’ll automatically create a paid Google Ads account and incur charges for your ads.
Once both emails are accepted, your Google Ad Grants account is active. It’s time to try logging in.
4 – Log in with your Google account
Now that you’ve confirmed your account is active, let’s explore different ways to access your Google Ad Grants account.
By following this linkclick “Sign In,” and log in with the email address associated with your Google for Nonprofits account. The account should be linked to one or more CIDs; select the one that matches your Google for Nonprofits account.
5 – Log in with another admin’s Google account
If the CID listed in your Google for Nonprofits account doesn’t appear when logging in, you may not have access to the Google Ad Grants account. Try logging in again through another administrator of the Google for Nonprofits account, and test each one. If one works, ensure the access is shared with other administrators.
6 – Submit a recovery request to Google
If no administrator has access to the Google Ad Grants account, the administrator for the account may have been removed from the list of Google for Nonprofits account administrators.
As no Google for Nonprofits administrators have access to the Google Ad Grants account, you can submit a recovery request to Google. When completing this form, select “I know my 10-digit Customer ID” and fill out all required information.
““Tip : Make sure the email address used is already listed as an administrator in your Google for Nonprofits account.
You’ll need to provide your CID, your nonprofit ID, and the URL of your nonprofit’s website. The request should be processed within 14 business days, restoring access to your Google Ad Grants account!
By following this guide, you’ll regain access to your Google Ad Grants account and start using your advertising credits to transform your mission into tangible impact. Ready to take off and shine a light on your mission?