Google Ads Credit Guide & Setup Support

Unlock Your Google Ads Credit

Google offers promotional ad credits to help businesses jump‑start their advertising efforts — but the details, requirements, and redemption steps can be confusing. This guide walks you through exactly how to qualify, redeem, and activate your Google Ads credit as a Rooted Rock Marketing Paid Media client.

What Is the Google Ads Promotional Credit & Who Is Eligible?

Google Ads promotional credits are incentives meant to reduce upfront ad spend; however, they usually apply only to newly created accounts and are commonly tied to working with an approved partner, like Rooted Rock Marketing, or managed service. For our clients, Google Ads credits may be available as part of a paid media program managed by our team, ensuring campaigns are properly set up, compliant with Google’s requirements, and positioned to maximize the value of the promotional credit.

Typical program requirements:

  • A brand-new Google Ads account must be created (no prior ad spend).

  • Ads must be run through a paid Google Ads management program (such as with Rooted Rock Marketing).

  • Google provides a matching credit after the account spends a qualifying amount during the required promotional period (ex: spend $500, get $500 in credit).

  • Redemption of the promo code within the required timeframe (commonly 14–30 days).

  • Credits are applied automatically once conditions are met.

How to Redeem Your Google Ads Credit (Step-by-Step)

1. Receive Your Promo Code

Promo codes may come from Google, partners, or promotions. Our team will help identify where to obtain an active promo code.

3. Begin Running Ads

Credits aren’t granted immediately—you must first meet the qualifying spend.

2. Add the Code to Your Google Ads Account

Inside Google Ads:

  1. Go to BillingPromotions.

  2. Select Enter promo code.

  3. Apply the credit.

4. Google Automatically Applies the Credit

Once the spend threshold is met, Google applies promotional credit to your billing summary.

How Rooted Rock Marketing Helps You Maximize Your Ad Credit

Your Google Ads credit is valuable — but you only benefit if campaigns are set up properly. Rooted Rock Marketing ensures every dollar counts.

✓ Eligibility review

We confirm whether your account qualifies before you begin.

✓ Promo code setup

We apply or guide you through promo code activation.

✓ Smart campaign structure

Our team builds targeted campaigns designed to:

  • Meet spend thresholds efficiently

  • Drive quality conversions

  • Avoid wasted budget

✓ Tracking, reporting & optimization

We help you:

  • Track when the credit has been applied

  • Understand how it impacts spend

  • Optimize campaigns for long-term success

✓ Dedicated support

Questions? Unclear about Google’s fine print? Our team stays with you through the entire process.

Frequently Asked Questions



How long do I have to spend the required amount?

In most Google Ads promotions, you have 30 days from the date you enter the promotional code to meet the required spend. The exact deadline can vary depending on the specific offer, so it’s important to review the promotion’s terms.

Will unused credit expire?

Yes. Google Ads promotional credits do expire and must be used within the timeframe defined by the promotion. Any unused portion of the credit is forfeited once that period ends.

Does the promo code reduce my real ad spend?

No. Google Ads promotional credits do not replace real ad spend. You must first spend your own advertising budget to meet the qualifying requirement; the credit is then applied afterward.

Can I use more than one promo code?

Generally, no. Google typically allows only one promotional credit per Google Ads account, even if multiple codes are available.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact us today to learn more