Why are my emails going to spam?
Common causes and what to check first — even when SPF and DMARC look correct.
Top causes
- Missing or invalid SPF or DMARC records
- DMARC policy too weak (e.g. p=none when providers expect quarantine or reject)
- DKIM not set up or misaligned
- No List-Unsubscribe (required for bulk senders by Gmail, Yahoo, Microsoft)
- Mail server IPs listed on blacklists
- Sudden sending spikes or poor reputation on shared IPs
If SPF/DMARC pass but you’re still in spam
Authentication is only part of the picture. Inboxes also use reputation and blacklist status. If your mail server IPs are listed, or you send from shared IPs with poor reputation, mail can land in spam even with correct SPF and DMARC. Run a deliverability scan to see blacklist status and full checks in one place.
FAQ
Why do my emails go to spam when SPF and DMARC pass?
Authentication (SPF/DMARC) is one factor. Inboxes also look at reputation, whether your mail server IPs are blacklisted, content, and sending patterns. A free blacklist and deliverability scan can show if IPs or other config are the cause.
What should I check first?
Run a deliverability scan: confirm SPF and DMARC are present and valid, check blacklist status for your mail server IPs, and ensure List-Unsubscribe is in place if you send marketing mail. Fix any failures, then monitor for changes.
Can a shared ESP IP cause spam placement?
Yes. If the IP pool you share is listed on a blacklist or has poor reputation, your mail can be filtered even when your domain's SPF/DMARC are correct. Contact your provider with the IP and list name if you see blacklist hits.
Do you fix my configuration?
We don't change your DNS or send email for you. We scan and report what we see and point you to guides. You (or your provider) apply the fixes.