List-Unsubscribe

List-Unsubscribe is an email header that allows recipients to unsubscribe from a mailing list without searching for a link in the footer.

Also known as One-click unsubscribe

The List-Unsubscribe header is a technical instruction added to the code of an email. It tells the email client (like Gmail or iOS Mail) to display a prominent "Unsubscribe" button at the top of the message, near the sender info.

This is crucial for two reasons. First, it reduces spam complaints—users who can easily unsubscribe are less likely to hit the "Report Spam" button. Second, it is now a mandatory requirement (specifically RFC 8058 One-Click Unsubscribe) for bulk senders targeting Gmail and Yahoo as of 2024.

If you send marketing email, you must include this header to ensure deliverability.

Related terms

ListYour email list is the group of people who have asked to hear from you by email. It is an audience you own and can contact any time without relying on ads or social platforms.
Email HeaderAn email header is the technical information attached to every email that shows where it came from and how it moved between servers. It also records checks that help decide whether the message is safe and legitimate.
List ChurnThe percentage of subscribers you lose from your email list in a set time period. It includes people who unsubscribe, mark you as spam, or are removed because their address no longer works.
UnsubscribeThe action someone takes to stop getting your emails, usually by clicking a link at the bottom of a message. It is required by law and it shows respect when you stop emailing them right away.

Articles about List-Unsubscribe

November 3, 2025List-Unsubscribe Header: Email Compliance Best PracticesLearn what the List-Unsubscribe header is and how to implement it. Understand email compliance requirements and how List-Unsubscribe improves deliverability.
January 22, 2024A simple explanation of the new List-Unsubscribe header changesAn overview of the more confusing aspects of the Gmail and Yahoo changes.
August 2, 2026MAGY sender compliance guideMAGY sender compliance covers Microsoft, Apple, Gmail, and Yahoo. Own your domain, pass SPF, DKIM, and DMARC with alignment, and keep spam complaints low.
View all articles →

More references.

SMTP field manual.

Every SMTP reply code, with real bounces from mailbox providers and spam filters and who needs to act.

Bounce playbooks.

Step-by-step fixes for bounces from Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, Apple, and more, plus what each provider expects from senders.

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