DNS Record Limitations

Benchmark Email requires DNS records to verify your domain, and some domain providers don't support the record types needed for either verification method. If your domain falls into this category, you still have options for sending through Benchmark.

Consider one of the following alternatives:

1. Benchmark Shared Domain
2. Use a Different Domain You Own
3. Move Your Domain's DNS Management

Benchmark's Shared Domain

The shared domain is a Benchmark Email sending address you can use right away — no DNS changes required. Simply verify your account email address during signup.

For example:

Your Business Name yourname@001a0.us.benchmarksend.com

Shared domain sending meets email authentication requirements and supports deliverability when domain verification isn't available. It's a practical starting point, and if your situation changes, you can always authenticate your own domain later.

Use a Different Domain You Own

If you have access to a second domain, you may be able to verify it instead.

To check, in your Benchmark Account, go to Email Settings > Domains, click Create Domain, and follow the steps to verify compatibility.

For the best chance of success, here is a list of domain providers that support the DNS records required for verification:

Move Your Domain's DNS Management

We know that changing how your domain is managed isn't a small ask, and it's not the right move for everyone. If it's something you'd like to explore, there are two ways to go about it without necessarily giving up your current domain registrar.

The first option is to point your DNS to an external provider — such as Cloudflare (free plan available) — while keeping your domain registered where it is. This avoids a full transfer and is often the faster, simpler path to getting full DNS access.

The second option is to transfer your domain entirely to a new registrar, such as GoDaddy or Namecheap, where you'll have full DNS control from the start.

A few things to be aware of before making any changes:

• If you are choosing a provider who supports Multi DNS Records, it is crucial that they specifically support custom MX records; if the domain provider does not support custom MX records, you will not be able to verify your domain.
• Domains cannot be transferred within 60 days of purchase, or within 60 days of a registrant contact change.
• A full domain transfer can take up to 8 days.
• DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate after a transfer.
• If you have other services tied to your domain (like Google Workspace), you'll need to reconfigure those DNS records at the new provider.

If you find yourself here with more questions, please contact our support team!