What Is a Reconsideration Request?
A reconsideration request is a formal appeal submitted through Google Search Console asking Google to review and lift a manual action penalty applied to a site.
When to File One
File a reconsideration request only after you’ve genuinely identified and fixed the underlying issue that triggered the manual action — whether that’s unnatural links, thin content, or another guideline violation. Submitting a request before the problem is actually resolved typically results in rejection and wastes a review cycle.
The Process
The request form requires a clear explanation of what caused the violation, exactly what was done to fix it, and evidence of the remediation (like a disavow file for a links-related penalty). Google’s spam team manually reviews the site and either lifts the manual action or responds explaining what still needs to be addressed — a process that can take anywhere from days to several weeks.
WRITTEN BY
Annabelle Cochrane
MANAGING DIRECTOR & SEO SPECIALIST
Annabelle holds a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) from QUT and works directly with every ALC Consulting client. She’s based on the Sunshine Coast and works with businesses across Australia.
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