Learn how to check if your emails are going to spam, what causes deliverability issues, and how to fix them using SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and IP reputation tools.

Introduction

One of the most common email problems businesses face is emails landing in the spam folder. Even legitimate emails can be filtered if email authentication, IP reputation, or domain trust is misconfigured.

Understanding why emails go to spam and how to diagnose the issue is essential for maintaining reliable communication and protecting your brand reputation.

Common Reasons Emails Go to Spam

Mailbox providers use advanced filtering systems to protect users. Emails may be marked as spam due to:

• Missing or incorrect SPF, DKIM, or DMARC records
• Poor IP reputation
• Blacklisted sending servers
• Suspicious email content or links
• High spam complaint rates

Step 1: Check Email Authentication

Email authentication is the foundation of deliverability. Start by validating your domain’s records:

• SPF Record Checker – confirms authorized sending servers
• DKIM Checker – verifies message integrity
• DMARC Checker – enforces email authentication policy

If any of these checks fail, mailbox providers may distrust your emails and route them to spam.

Step 2: Analyze IP Reputation

Even with correct authentication, emails can be blocked if the sending IP has a poor reputation. Email providers track sender behavior over time.

Use the IP Reputation Checker to identify whether your sending IP is considered trustworthy.

Step 3: Check Blacklists

Blacklisted IPs or domains are a major cause of spam filtering. If your IP appears on a blacklist, emails may be rejected outright.

Run a scan using the Blacklist Checker to see if your sending infrastructure is listed.

Step 4: Verify Email Infrastructure

Incorrect DNS or mail server configuration can also affect delivery. Ensure your email routing and DNS records are correct.

Helpful tools include:

• MX Lookup – verify mail servers
• DNS Lookup – inspect DNS records

Step 5: Run a Complete Email & IP Audit

For a full overview, use the Complete Email & IP Audit to detect authentication issues, reputation risks, and blacklist problems in one scan.

How to Fix Emails Going to Spam

Once issues are identified, corrective actions include:

• Fixing SPF, DKIM, and DMARC alignment
• Removing blacklisted IPs
• Warming up new IP addresses
• Improving email content quality
• Monitoring reputation regularly

Conclusion

Emails going to spam is not random — it is usually caused by authentication failures, reputation problems, or infrastructure misconfiguration. By regularly checking email security settings and monitoring sender trust, businesses can significantly improve inbox placement and protect their domain reputation.