Creating a Google Cloud Billing Account

Creating a billing account is like setting up a payment method for your Google Cloud projects. Even if you’re using a free trial or free-tier services, you still need an active billing account linked to your projects. This guide will walk you through the entire process, step by step.

Step 1: Go to the Google Cloud Console

First, sign in to your Google account. It’s best to use the account you plan to use for your Google Cloud projects.

1. Open your web browser and go to the Google Cloud Console .

2. If this is your first time, you may be asked to accept the Terms of Service. Read and agree to continue.

Step 2: Navigate to the Billing Section

Step 3: Start the Account Creation

Now you’ll begin setting up your billing information.

1. Click the Create account button.

2. Name your billing account. Choose something descriptive, like “My Personal Billing” or “Project X Billing”.

3. Select your Country. This determines currency and payment options. You cannot change this later, so choose carefully.

4. Read and accept the Terms of Service, then click Continue.

Step 4: Set Up Your Payments Profile

This step connects your billing account to a payment method.

1. Choose the Google payments profile that will be linked to this billing account. You can select an existing one or create a new payments profile.

2. Fill in the required details:

• Account type: Choose Individual or Business (this cannot be changed later).
• Name and address.
• Payment method: Enter your credit or debit card details.

3. Google may place a small temporary authorization charge (usually $0–$1) to verify your card. This is not a real charge and will be refunded.

4. When all details are complete, click Submit to enable billing.

Congratulations!

You’ve successfully created a Google Cloud billing account. You can now use Google Cloud services and link your projects to this new account.

Next: Creating a Google Cloud Project