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2 min read Domain for Email Sending

How to Configure a Custom Domain for Email Sending (SMTP / SendGrid) in GoHighLevel

Set up your custom sending domain in GoHighLevel by integrating SendGrid (or another SMTP provider). Learn how to generate API keys, configure GoHighLevel’s Email Services, verify sender identities, and avoid common pitfalls in email delivery.

TL;DR

You can send branded emails from your own domain in GoHighLevel by connecting a SendGrid SMTP account.
Use username: apikey, password: your SendGrid API key, and email: your verified sender address.
After linking SendGrid in Settings → Email Services, verify your sender domain and test delivery.

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How It Works

GoHighLevel lets you integrate external SMTP providers to send email campaigns under your domain. SendGrid is one of the most reliable free options for small send volumes, offering domain authentication and analytics.

This setup ensures your messages come from you@yourdomain.com instead of a generic system address, improving deliverability and trust with clients.

Setup Steps

  1. Log into GoHighLevel
    Go to Settings → Email Services.
    Click Add Service → SendGrid.
  2. Create a SendGrid Account
    Register at SendGrid and verify your email.
    In the SendGrid dashboard, go to Settings → API Keys → Create API Key (Full Access).
    Copy the generated key.
  3. Connect SendGrid to GoHighLevel
    In GoHighLevel’s SMTP setup:
    • Username: apikey
    • Email: your verified sender email (e.g. info@yourdomain.com)
    • Password: paste your SendGrid API key
      Save changes.
  4. Verify Your Sender Identity
    Back in SendGrid, verify your sender domain or single sender email.
    You’ll need to confirm ownership via DNS or email verification.
  5. Test the Connection
    Send a test message from your GoHighLevel account.
    Check if it lands in your inbox.
    If it bounces or goes to spam, review your DNS (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) setup.

Limitations and Best Practices

  • Matching Emails: The “From” address must match your verified SendGrid identity.
  • Limited Stats: Some SMTPs don’t return full delivery data (only opens/clicks).
  • Avoid Free Emails: Don’t use Gmail or Yahoo addresses as your SMTP sender.
  • Warm Up New Domains: Send gradually to avoid spam filters.
  • Authenticate Your Domain: Add SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records in DNS.

FAQ

1. Can I use Gmail or Outlook SMTP instead of SendGrid?
Yes, but deliverability can be lower. SendGrid or Mailgun are more reliable for bulk or automation use.

2. Is SendGrid free?
SendGrid offers a free tier limited to about 100 emails per day. You can upgrade if you need higher volume.

3. What’s the correct username and password format?
Username must be apikey, and the password must be your SendGrid API key.

4. Why are my emails not sending?
Most likely the “From” email doesn’t match your verified sender domain or SPF/DKIM setup is missing.

5. How can I check if my SMTP is working?
Send a test email from a contact record in GoHighLevel and confirm it arrives without spam warnings.

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