How to Manage User & Access Levels in Google Ads Account
Managing user access levels in your Google Ads account is critical for security, accountability, and smooth team collaboration. The right access ensures people can do their job without risking budget misuse or accidental changes.
Why User & Access Management Matters
Proper access control helps you:
- Protect billing and budgets
- Prevent accidental campaign changes
- Assign clear responsibilities
- Track who did what (audit trail)
- Work safely with agencies and freelancers
Types of User Access Levels in Google Ads
Google Ads offers different roles, each with specific permissions.
1. Admin (Full Control)
- Add/remove users
- Edit campaigns, settings, and billing
- Link accounts (GA4, Merchant Center, MCC)
Best for: Account owners, senior managers
2. Standard (Campaign Manager)
- Create and edit campaigns
- Pause/start ads
- View reports
Cannot manage users or billing
Best for: In-house marketers, agencies
3. Read-Only (View Access)
- View campaigns and reports
- No editing allowed
Best for: Clients, auditors, interns
4. Email-Only
- Receives notifications and alerts
- No account access
Best for: Management updates only
How to Add a User to Google Ads
Step 1: Open Access & Security
- Log in to Google Ads
- Click Tools & Settings
- Go to Access and security
Step 2: Add a New User
- Click the + (Add user) button
- Enter the user’s email address
- Select the access level
Step 3: Send Invitation
- Click Send invitation
- User must accept via email
Access is activated once accepted.
How to Change User Access Level
- Go to Access and security
- Find the user
- Click Edit
- Change the access level
- Save changes
Useful when promotions or role changes happen.
How to Remove a User Safely
- Open Access and security
- Select the user
- Click Remove access
- Confirm removal
Always remove access immediately when:
- An employee leaves
- Agency contract ends
- Freelancer work is completed
Real-Life Example
Example: Marketing Team Setup
Business: E-commerce company
Team Members:
- Marketing Head → Admin
- Performance Marketer → Standard
- SEO Analyst → Read-only
- Founder → Email-only
Result:
- No billing risk
- Smooth collaboration
- Clear responsibility
- Better account security
Managing Access in Google Ads Manager (MCC) Accounts
If you use a Manager (MCC) account:
- Grant access at manager level or individual account level
- Avoid giving admin access to all linked accounts
- Use Standard access for agencies
This keeps multiple accounts secure and organized.
Best Practices for User Access Management
- Give minimum required access
- Avoid too many admins
- Review access list every month
- Use work emails, not personal ones
- Track changes using account history
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Giving admin access to everyone
❌ Forgetting to remove ex-employees
❌ Sharing login credentials
❌ Allowing billing access unnecessarily