Editing Delete a custom contact field (section)

= How to Delete a Custom Contact Field =

Deleting a custom contact field in ActiveCampaign is a straightforward process that allows you to manage your contact database effectively. This feature is particularly important as it helps keep your account organized and ensures that outdated or unnecessary fields do not clutter your interface. However, it is vital to understand the consequences of deleting a custom field as the data contained within the field will be permanently removed. 

== Introduction ==
In ActiveCampaign, custom contact fields enable you to tailor your contact management according to your specific needs. However, there may come a time when you need to delete one or more of these fields. Perhaps the information is no longer relevant, or you want to simplify your contact data. When you delete a custom contact field, all data associated with that field will be permanently erased. This includes any instances where the field is used in automations or campaigns, making it critical to handle this feature with caution.

== How to Access This Feature ==
To access the feature for deleting custom contact fields, follow these steps:
1. Navigate to the '''Contacts''' section in the left menu of your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Select the '''Fields''' option to reach the Manage Fields page.

== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
Follow these detailed steps to delete a custom contact field:

1. **Click Contacts** > **Fields** on the left menu to access the Manage Fields page.
2. Once on the Manage Fields page, ensure that you are on the '''Contacts''' tab.
3. Locate the custom contact field you wish to delete. To do this, hover your mouse over the field’s name.
4. Click the '''trash icon''' that appears next to the field. This action initiates the deletion process.
5. A confirmation message will pop up, informing you of the implications of this deletion. Review the message carefully.
6. To confirm the deletion, toggle the '''I Understand''' option and then click the '''Delete''' button.

Once these steps are completed, the custom field and all contained data will be permanently deleted from your account.

== Configuration Options and Settings ==
While deleting a custom contact field is fairly simple, you should be aware of the following options and settings:
- Custom fields must be accessed through the '''Manage Fields''' page.
- You can only delete custom fields; standard fields like '''First Name''', '''Last Name''', '''Email''', and '''Phone''' cannot be deleted.

== Best Practices and Tips ==
When considering the deletion of a custom contact field, follow these best practices:
- **Backup Your Data**: Before deleting any custom fields, it's strongly recommended that you export your contacts. This safeguards any important data that might be lost during the deletion process. You can learn more about exporting contacts in our [export contacts documentation].
- **Evaluate Necessity**: Assess whether the field holds any value to your current operations. If unsure, it is safer to retain the field rather than delete it.
- **Remove from Automations First**: Make sure the custom field is not actively used in any automations or campaigns before deletion. This helps prevent unexpected outcomes in your marketing processes.

== Common Use Cases ==
Here are some scenarios where you might want to delete a custom contact field:
- **Outdated Information**: If a custom field was created for a temporary data collection effort and is no longer relevant, consider deleting it.
- **Field Consolidation**: Multiple custom fields may have similar purposes. Deleting redundant fields can simplify data management.
  
== Troubleshooting ==
While deleting custom contact fields is usually straightforward, follow these tips if you encounter issues:
- **Check Field Usage**: If you cannot delete a field, confirm that it is not currently being used in any active automations or campaigns.
- **Refresh the Page**: If the delete option does not appear correctly, refreshing the Manage Fields page may resolve display issues.

== FAQ ==
*'''Q: Can I restore a deleted custom contact field?'''
  A: No, once a custom contact field is deleted, it and all associated data cannot be restored.

*'''Q: What happens to data linked to the deleted field?'''
  A: All data within the deleted field will be permanently erased from your account.

*'''Q: Can I delete multiple custom fields at once?'''
  A: The current process only allows for one custom field to be deleted at a time. Each field must be deleted individually.

*'''Q: Are there any custom fields I cannot delete?'''
  A: Yes, default fields such as '''First Name''', '''Last Name''', '''Email''', and '''Phone''' cannot be deleted.

*'''Q: What should I do if I accidentally delete a field?'''
  A: Unfortunately, deleted fields cannot be recovered, so it’s important to ensure that you really want to delete a field before proceeding.

*'''Q: Is there a limit to how many custom fields I can create?'''
  A: ActiveCampaign allows you to create a significant number of custom fields, but you should check your plan documentation for any specific limitations.

*'''Q: How can I contact support if I have issues?'''
  A: If you need assistance, consider reaching out to the ActiveCampaign support team through the help center.

For further assistance related to managing your contact fields, visit the ActiveCampaign help center or consult the relevant documentation in [[Contacts]] or [[Fields]].
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