How to Set Up DKIM for Mailchimp

Enable DKIM signing for Mailchimp by publishing a CNAME record that allows Mailchimp to cryptographically sign your outgoing marketing email.

Quick Answer — The Record You Need

Record Type

CNAME

Host / Name

k1._domainkey

Value

dkim.mcsv.net

Mailchimp provides the exact CNAME record in your account under domain authentication settings.

Step-by-Step Setup

Log in to Mailchimp

Go to mailchimp.com and sign in.

Go to domain authentication

Navigate to Account > Settings > Domains. Select your domain or click "Add & Verify Domain".

Enable DKIM authentication

Mailchimp will display a CNAME record for DKIM. The selector is typically k1.

Add the CNAME record to DNS

Create a CNAME record in your DNS provider.

k1._domainkey.yourdomain.com  CNAME  dkim.mcsv.net

Verify in Mailchimp

Click "Verify" in Mailchimp. Once DNS propagates, Mailchimp will confirm DKIM is active.

Common Gotchas

Mailchimp uses a CNAME record for DKIM, not a TXT record. The CNAME points to dkim.mcsv.net where Mailchimp hosts the public key.
The DKIM selector Mailchimp uses is typically k1. Verify the exact selector shown in your account settings.
DKIM authentication is part of Mailchimp's domain authentication process. You typically set up SPF and DKIM together.

Verify Your Setup

After adding your DNS records, use our free DKIM checker to verify everything is configured correctly. DNS changes typically propagate within minutes, but can take up to 48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DKIM selector for Mailchimp?

Mailchimp typically uses k1 as the DKIM selector. The record is published as a CNAME at k1._domainkey.yourdomain.com pointing to dkim.mcsv.net.

Do I need DKIM for Mailchimp?

Yes. DKIM is important for deliverability and required for DMARC alignment. Without DKIM, your Mailchimp emails may land in spam folders.

Can I use a custom DKIM selector with Mailchimp?

No. Mailchimp assigns the DKIM selector. You must use the one provided in your domain authentication settings.