Monetizing your blog or website with Google AdSense is a great way to generate passive income. However, the verification process can be confusing — especially when you're not ready to implement the ads.txt file. Fortunately, Google AdSense offers an alternative method: meta tag verification.
In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to verify your Google AdSense account using the meta tag method, perfect for platforms like Ghost, WordPress, or custom-coded websites — no need for ads.txt.
Why Use Meta Tag Instead of ads.txt?
The ads.txt method is commonly recommended, but it’s not mandatory for verification — it’s primarily for ad inventory authorization. If you:
Don’t have access to your site’s root directory
Use a headless CMS like Ghost
Want to keep things simple during the initial verification
… then using a meta tag is the best and fastest method.
Step-by-Step: AdSense Verification Using Meta Tag
✅ Step 1: Sign in to Google AdSense
Go to https://www.google.com/adsense
Log in with your Google account
Click on Sites in the left sidebar
Add your site (e.g., www.example.com) if it’s not already listed
✅ Step 2: Copy the Meta Tag Provided
Once you add your site, Google will display a meta tag similar to this:
Note: Your content value will be unique to your AdSense account.
✅ Step 3: Insert the Meta Tag into Your Site's <head> Section
For Ghost (Self-hosted or Pro):
Log in to your Ghost Admin panel.
Go to Settings → Code Injection.
In the Site Header box, paste the meta tag:
Click Save.
For WordPress:
Use a plugin like “Insert Headers and Footers,” or:
Add the tag manually to your header.php inside the <head> section.
For HTML Sites:
✅ Step 4: Click "Verify" in Google AdSense
After saving your site with the injected meta tag:
Go back to your AdSense dashboard
Click Verify next to your added site
Google will scan your site and verify the tag
✅ If everything is okay, you’ll see a "Ready" or "Verified" status.
❓ What Happens Next?
Google will begin reviewing your site for policy compliance
You’ll be notified within a few days if your account is approved
Once approved, you can generate ad units and start earning!
Reminder: Even though you skipped ads.txt, it's recommended to add it later to increase your ad revenue by ensuring authorized sellers.
Common Issues to Avoid
Don’t paste the tag in the body — it must go in the <head> section.
Ensure there are no typos in the meta tag.
Make sure your site is publicly accessible (no "coming soon" pages or password walls).
Bonus Tip: How to Check if the Meta Tag is Working
You can inspect your website’s HTML source:
Open your site in a browser
Right-click and choose View Page Source
Search for google-adsense-account
If you see the meta tag, you're good to go.
