How to add custom email domains to iCloud

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To add custom email domains to iCloud, you must first have an iCloud+ subscription. Once subscribed, navigate to iCloud settings, select 'Mail', and follow the prompts to add your custom domain. This process allows you to create personalized email addresses using your own domain name.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start adding a custom email domain to iCloud, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •An active iCloud+ subscription is required.
  • •Access to the domain registrar where your domain is registered.
  • •Basic understanding of DNS settings and email configuration.
  • •Backup any important data from your existing iCloud account.

Method 1: Adding Custom Domain via iCloud Settings

This method is the primary way to add a custom email domain directly through iCloud settings on both macOS and Windows.
  • •Step 1: Open the Settings app on your device. On macOS, click on the Apple menu and select 'System Preferences'. On Windows, open the iCloud app from the Start menu.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Apple ID' (macOS) or 'iCloud' (Windows) and then select 'iCloud'.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Mail', then select 'Custom Email Domain'.
  • •Step 4: Enter your custom domain name and follow the prompts to verify ownership and configure DNS settings.
  • •Step 5: Once the domain is verified, you can create email addresses associated with your domain.
  • •Step 6: To verify it worked, send a test email to the new address and check for successful delivery.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, check your DNS settings for any misconfigurations.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps to add a custom email domain.
  • •Open the iCloud app from the Start menu.
  • •Click on 'Mail' and follow the same steps as outlined above.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 specific steps to add a custom email domain.
  • •Open the iCloud app from the Start menu.
  • •Click on 'Mail' and follow the same steps as outlined above.

Method 2: Using iCloud.com to Add Custom Domain

This alternative method allows you to add a custom email domain directly through the iCloud website.
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser and go to iCloud.com.
  • •Step 2: Sign in with your Apple ID and password.
  • •Step 3: Click on the 'Mail' icon.
  • •Step 4: In the Mail settings, navigate to 'Preferences' and select 'Custom Email Domain'.
  • •Step 5: Enter your custom domain name and follow the prompts to verify ownership and configure DNS settings.
  • •Step 6: Create email addresses associated with your domain.
  • •Step 7: Verify the setup by sending a test email to the new address.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while adding your custom email domain, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Domain not verified' - Solution: Ensure that your DNS records are correctly set up and that you have added the necessary TXT record for verification.
  • •Issue: 'Email not sending' - Fix: Check your SMTP settings and ensure that your email client is configured to use the correct outgoing server.
  • •Problem: 'Custom domain not showing' - Workaround: Wait for DNS changes to propagate, which can take up to 48 hours.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these power user tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + N (macOS) / Ctrl + N (Windows) - Creates a new email quickly.
  • •Command line: nslookup yourdomain.com - Check DNS settings from the command line.
  • •Hidden feature: Mail Rules - Set up rules to automatically sort emails from your custom domain.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To successfully add a custom email domain, ensure you have a clear understanding of DNS settings and iCloud+ features.