How to set up List-Unsubscribe on Amazon SES

Step by step List-Unsubscribe setup for Amazon SES: complete instructions, examples, verification commands, and common pitfalls.

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This is a reference guide for configuring List-Unsubscribe on Amazon SES. Use it while editing DNS or when troubleshooting deliverability.

Tip: Here’s a reliable, copy-pasteable way to set up List-Unsubscribe using Amazon SES. Then verify everything with the InboxGreen Free Checker.

Provider-specific notes for Amazon SES

  • Amazon SES uses CNAME-based DKIM (Easy DKIM), not a plain TXT key. AWS generates three CNAME records - all three must be published for DKIM to pass.
  • SES requires domain identity verification before sending. SPF via the mail-from subdomain is optional when Easy DKIM is active, but both are recommended for DMARC alignment.
  • AWS Console → Amazon SES → Identities → Domain → DKIM and Authentication.

What is List-Unsubscribe?

List-Unsubscribe is a message header that gives inboxes a safe, machine readable way to unsubscribe. Gmail and Outlook often show a clear unsubscribe link when it is present and valid, which reduces spam complaints and protects your sender reputation.

How to enable it in practice

  1. In your sending platform, enable the List-Unsubscribe header or macro in templates.
  2. Use a one click HTTPS link as the main method, with a mailto address as fallback.
  3. Test by sending to a Gmail address and checking “Show original”.

Example headers

List-Unsubscribe: <https://yourdomain.com/u/abcd1234>, <mailto:[email protected]?subject=unsubscribe>
List-Unsubscribe-Post: List-Unsubscribe=One-Click

Common mistakes

  • Using a broken or redirected unsubscribe link that fails when clicked.
  • Only providing a mailto address without a one click URL.
  • Failing to apply the unsubscribe globally across lists and tools.

Related for Amazon SES

quick_reference_all Set up SPF on Amazon SES quick_reference_all Set up DKIM on Amazon SES quick_reference_all Set up DMARC on Amazon SES
Pro tip: Turn on InboxGreen Monitoring to check these records daily and get alerts if something breaks.

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