What is Spam Complaint Rate?
TL;DR
The percentage of recipients who mark your email as spam, the most damaging action for Sender Reputation. Even 0.1% complaint rate (1 per 1,000 emails) can trigger deliverability problems; major providers like Gmail aim for under 0.05%. Unlike unsubscribes (you don't want me), spam complaints say "this is abuse" (this shouldn't exist). Spam complaints happen when: unsubscribing is hard, content doesn't match expectations, recipients forgot they signed up, or you're emailing purchased lists. Reduce complaints by setting clear expectations at signup, including visible unsubscribe links (top and bottom), reminding subscribers how they joined (header reminder), and honoring frequency promises. Monitor complaint rates via Google Postmaster Tools. Any spike requires immediate investigation, continued high complaints can get your domain blacklisted entirely.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Spam Complaint Rate
What's an acceptable spam complaint rate?
Under 0.05% (1 per 2,000 emails) for Gmail specifically, under 0.1% generally. Even these small rates damage reputation. Spam complaints are the most damaging action recipients can take, far worse than unsubscribing.
Why do people mark emails as spam instead of unsubscribing?
Unsubscribing is too hard or hidden, they forgot they signed up, content didn't match expectations, or they're frustrated by frequency. Make unsubscribing easy and obvious, it's far better than a spam complaint.
How do I monitor spam complaint rates?
Google Postmaster Tools shows your complaint rate with Gmail users. Your email platform may show feedback loop data from other providers. Check regularly and investigate any spike immediately.
What happens if my spam complaint rate is too high?
Emails go to spam, deliverability tanks, and eventually you can be blacklisted entirely. High complaint rates can destroy years of reputation building. Take complaints seriously and fix root causes fast.
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