> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.spicegems.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.spicegems.com/esl-easy-store-locator/google-maps/google-map-may-not-work-correctly.md).

# Google Map may not work correctly

If your store map displays an error such as "This map may not work correctly" or "For development purposes only" on a darkened map, it indicates that Google has temporarily disabled your Maps key.

This normally occurs due to a billing issue and can be resolved pretty quickly.

#### **Why This Happens & How to Fix It**

**1. Your Free Trial Ended**

When you first set up Google Maps, you got a 90-day free trial or $300 in usage credits—whichever comes first. Once you hit that limit, Google pauses your Maps until you activate billing.

Here’s what to do:

* Use this link to activate billing.
* Log in to your Google Cloud dashboard and look for an *“Upgrade”* button or a banner about your trial ending.
* Set up billing alerts or usage limits to avoid surprises.

Good news: Even after upgrading, Google gives you $200 in free monthly credits—enough for most store locators with under 10,000 visits a month.

**2. No Billing Account Linked**

If your Maps key was created before 2018, it might your account is not linked to a payment method. To fix this, you need to link a payment method.

**3. Outdated Billing Details**

If your card has expired or is invalid, update your payment info in the Billing section of your Google dashboard.

#### **Other Causes**

For less common issues, refer to [Google’s troubleshooting guide](https://support.google.com/).