Google Workspace Domain Verification Blocked? Fix 'Subscription Cancelled' Errors

Setting up Google Workspace for your organization should be a smooth process, but sometimes, previous subscriptions or free trials can leave lingering issues. One common hurdle administrators encounter is an error preventing domain verification, even after a trial has ended or a previous subscription was cancelled. This insight delves into a specific scenario reported by a Google Workspace user and provides the direct solution.

The Domain Verification Dilemma: "Subscription Cancelled" Error

A user recently shared their frustration on a Google support forum. After signing up for Google Workspace and attempting to verify their domain (e.g., mydomain.co.uk), they were met with a persistent error message:

You can't verify domain ownership because someone at mydomain.co.uk has cancelled their Google Workspace subscription.

This message appeared despite the user having just completed a 14-day free trial and being pushed to a paid service. The core problem here is that Google's system still recognizes the domain as being tied to a previously cancelled (or expired) Workspace subscription, preventing a new verification attempt.

Why This Happens

When a Google Workspace subscription (even a free trial) is cancelled, the domain associated with it isn't immediately released for new registrations or verifications. There's often a grace period or a hold to prevent immediate re-registration by another party or to allow for potential reactivation. If you try to set up a new Workspace account with the same domain during this transitional phase, you'll hit this verification roadblock.

The Straightforward Solution for Admins

Fortunately, Google provides a dedicated channel to resolve this specific issue. As advised by a Google product expert, the solution involves filling out a specialized form:

• Access the "Domain in Use" Form: Navigate to https://support.google.com/a/contact/domain_in_use.
• Provide Details: On this form, you'll need to provide details about your domain, the issue you're facing, and your contact information. Be as specific as possible about the error message you received and the history of your domain's association with Google Workspace (e.g., "previously had a free trial, now trying to set up a new paid subscription").
• Await Support Contact: After submitting the form, Google Workspace support will be in touch to assist you further. They will guide you through the process of clearing the previous subscription link and enabling you to verify your domain for the new Workspace account.

Key Takeaways for Google Workspace Administrators

• Patience is Key: Domain verification issues, especially those stemming from previous subscriptions, often require direct intervention from Google Support.
• Utilize Dedicated Forms: Google's support ecosystem includes specific forms for common problems. Knowing which form to use (like the "Domain in Use" form for this scenario) can significantly speed up resolution.
• Document Your History: Keeping records of your Google Workspace subscriptions, trial periods, and cancellation dates can be invaluable when troubleshooting such issues.
• Plan Domain Transitions: If you anticipate moving a domain between Google Workspace accounts or re-using a domain after a cancellation, factor in potential delays for domain release.

While encountering a verification error can be frustrating, the "Domain in Use" form is the direct path to resolution for admins facing this particular challenge. It ensures that Google's support team can manually clear the old subscription link, allowing you to proceed with your new Google Workspace setup and gain access to all its features, from email to collaborative tools like Google Drive, where you can then manage aspects like Google Drive storage usage for your team.