📋 Citation Submission Status and Processing Timelines

📋 Overview

After submitting local citations through Search Atlas, it is normal for statuses to take some time to update. This article explains what happens after you submit a citation, how to check its current status, and how long the process typically takes.

🧭 How to Find Your Citation Submissions

1. Log in to your Search Atlas account.
2. In the left sidebar, click Local.
3. Select Local Citations from the sub-menu.
4. You will see a list of all citation submissions along with their current status.

⏳ Understanding Citation Processing Timelines

Citation submissions go through a multi-step process before they are live on third-party directories. Here is a general breakdown of what to expect:

• Submission queued (0–24 hours): Immediately after you submit, your citation enters a processing queue. During this window, the status may appear unchanged or show no activity — this is expected behavior.
• Submission in progress (1–7 business days): Search Atlas begins submitting your business information to the relevant directories. Status updates will begin appearing as each directory is contacted.
• Live or pending verification (7–21 business days): Most directories process and publish citations within this window. Some directories require additional verification steps, such as a phone call or postcard, which can extend this timeline.

🔍 What the Status Labels Mean

Each citation in your Local Citations dashboard displays a status label. Here is what each one indicates:

• Queued: Your submission has been received and is waiting to enter the active processing pipeline.
• In Progress: Search Atlas is actively submitting your citation to the selected directories.
• Submitted: The citation has been sent to the directory and is awaiting their review or publication.
• Live: Your citation is published and visible on the directory.
• Pending Verification: The directory requires you to complete an additional step (e.g., phone or postcard verification) before the listing goes live.
• Rejected: The directory did not accept the submission. Check that your business information is accurate and complete, then resubmit.

⚠️ Why Your Status May Not Update Right Away

If you submitted citations and the dashboard does not yet reflect any progress, this is usually not a cause for concern. Common reasons for a delayed status update include:

• Your submission is still in the initial processing queue, especially if it was submitted within the last 24 hours.
• The target directories have slower review cycles, particularly for new or unverified listings.
• High submission volume across the platform can occasionally delay queue processing.

Allow at least 2–3 business days before expecting visible status changes. If your citations remain in a Submitting state for more than 5 business days without any update, it is worth reaching out for support.

✅ Tips for Faster, Successful Citations

• Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent and accurate before submitting.
• Add a complete business description, website URL, and category to improve acceptance rates across directories.
• Avoid submitting duplicate citations to the same directory — check your existing citations list first.
• If a directory requires manual verification, complete that step promptly to avoid delays.

💬 Need More Help?

If you need further assistance, open the chat widget in the bottom-right corner of the platform and type human teammate to be connected with a member of our team.