Quick Answer
Heritage Web automatically matches you with potential clients within 75 miles of each business location you add. When someone submits a referral request, the system calculates the distance and connects them with professionals in their area. This radius applies to each location independently—more locations means broader coverage.
Overview
Geographic lead matching is one of the key ways Heritage Web connects professionals with clients. When a potential client submits a referral request, the system considers several factors including industry, language, licensing, and location. The 75-mile default radius ensures you receive leads from clients close enough to reasonably serve.
The radius is measured as straight-line distance from the center of your ZIP code to the center of the client's ZIP code. This isn't driving distance—it's "as the crow flies."
How It Works
Step 1: You Add a Location
When you add a business location with a valid address and ZIP code, the system creates a 75-mile matching radius around that point.
Step 2: Client Submits Request
A potential client visits a Heritage Web publication and submits a referral request, providing their location information.
Step 3: System Calculates Distance
The system calculates the straight-line distance between the client's ZIP code and your office ZIP code.
Step 4: Match or No Match
Distance | Result |
Within 75 miles | ✓ You're eligible for the lead |
Beyond 75 miles | ✗ You're not matched with this lead |
Step 5: Lead Delivery
If matched, you receive the lead based on your notification preferences and listing tier (Sponsor vs. Free).
Multiple Locations = Broader Coverage
Each location you add creates its own independent 75-mile radius. The circles may overlap, but you won't receive duplicate leads.
Example:
An attorney with offices in Houston and Dallas has two matching circles:
Houston office: Covers Houston metro and surrounding areas
Dallas office: Covers Dallas metro and surrounding areas
Combined: Covers most major population centers in Texas
This significantly expands the geographic area from which you can receive client referrals.
Important Notes
Default radius is 75 miles—this applies to all profiles unless customized.
Distance is straight-line—not driving distance or travel time.
Measured from ZIP code center—not your exact address.
Radius can be customized—contact support to request changes.
Hidden locations still match—toggling visibility off doesn't affect matching.
No location = no geographic matching—unless you request a custom service area.
FAQs
Why 75 miles?
The 75-mile default balances reach with relevance. It's far enough to cover most metropolitan areas and nearby suburbs while ensuring clients are within reasonable service distance.
Can I change my matching radius?
Yes. Contact support to request a different radius. Common options include 25, 50, 100, or 150 miles. You can also request "No Limit" for national services.
What if I serve clients nationally?
Request a custom "No Limit" service area from support. This removes geographic restrictions and matches you with clients regardless of their location.
Does hiding my location stop lead matching?
No. Even when your location is hidden from your public listing, it still works for geographic matching. This provides privacy while maintaining lead flow.
How do multiple locations work together?
Each location has its own radius. If a client falls within any of your location radii, you're eligible for the match. Overlapping circles don't cause duplicate leads.
What if my ZIP code is wrong?
Verify your ZIP code is accurate—leads are matched based on this data. An incorrect ZIP could mean missing leads from your actual service area or receiving leads from the wrong area.
Why am I not getting local leads?
Check that your location is entered correctly with accurate ZIP code, your listing is approved, and the Referrals toggle is ON in your Publications tab. Contact support if issues persist.