Editing Double opt in vs. single opt in (section)

== Double opt-in vs. single opt-in ==

ActiveCampaign provides users with the option to choose between '''double opt-in''' and '''single opt-in''' processes for managing their email and SMS marketing contacts. The choice between these methods can significantly impact the engagement levels, deliverability, and compliance of your marketing efforts.

=== Introduction ===
Double opt-in and single opt-in are two methods of obtaining consent from contacts before they start receiving your marketing messages. Each method has its own merits and can cater to different types of businesses or marketing strategies.

- '''Double opt-in''' requires contacts to take an extra step in confirming their interest after submitting their information, adding a layer of verification.
- '''Single opt-in''' allows contacts to immediately receive messages upon submitting their information without the need for further confirmation.

Deciding which process to use should be aligned with your business goals and the specific needs of your audience.

=== How to access this feature ===
To configure the opt-in process for your forms in ActiveCampaign, navigate to the forms section of your account. You can typically find this setting within the interface for managing your email marketing and SMS marketing lists.

=== Step-by-step instructions ===

==== Enabling Double Opt-in ====
1. Go to the '''Forms''' section in your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Select the form that you wish to configure for '''double opt-in'''.
3. Ensure that the form settings are set to use double opt-in by checking the confirmation settings.
4. Once you have configured this, make sure to save your settings.

==== Enabling Single Opt-in ====
1. Access the '''Forms''' area of your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Select the form you want to set up for '''single opt-in'''.
3. In the settings for your form, change the opt-in method to single opt-in.
4. Save your changes to complete the configuration.

=== Configuration options and settings ===
When setting up your forms, you have the choice between these configuration options:
- '''Double opt-in''': This option requires subscribers to confirm their email address via a confirmation link sent to their inbox.
- '''Single opt-in''': Contacts are automatically marked as '''Active''' and can start receiving messages right away after submitting their information.

Be mindful that '''double opt-in''' is not available for SMS marketing list forms; this method is exclusive to email marketing lists.

=== Best practices and tips ===
- **Assess your audience**: If your business relies heavily on engagement and deliverability, consider using '''double opt-in''' to maintain a high-quality contact list.
- **Monitor engagement**: For businesses that prioritize quick list growth, '''single opt-in''' may be more effective, but keep an eye on engagement metrics and spam complaints.
- **Stay compliant**: Depending on your country or region’s emailing regulations, using the '''double opt-in''' method may help you comply with legal requirements that protect consumer consent.
- **Communicate clearly**: Let your contacts know what to expect after they submit their information, regardless of which opt-in method you choose.

=== Common use cases with examples ===
- **Double Opt-in Use Case**: A newsletter focused on high-quality content may prefer to use '''double opt-in''' to ensure that only genuinely interested readers receive their emails, thus reducing spam complaints and increasing open rates.
  
- **Single Opt-in Use Case**: An event registration where immediate updates are essential could benefit from '''single opt-in''' to ensure that attendees receive timely confirmations and updates without delay.

=== Troubleshooting ===
- If subscribers are not receiving the confirmation email in the '''double opt-in''' process, check the following:
  - Ensure that the email address entered is correct.
  - Verify that submission is tagged as "unconfirmed" in the list settings.
  - Check your email deliverability settings.
- For '''single opt-in''', if users complain about receiving unwanted emails, promptly address the complaints by ensuring they are aware of the opt-in model used.

=== FAQ ===
==== What is the primary difference between double opt-in and single opt-in? ====
The primary difference is that '''double opt-in''' requires an additional confirmation step via email, while '''single opt-in''' allows immediate access upon form submission.

==== Can I use double opt-in for SMS lists? ====
No, '''double opt-in''' is not available for SMS marketing lists. Only single opt-in is applicable for SMS contacts.

==== Will contacts in the double opt-in process count against my limit? ====
No, '''unconfirmed''' contacts do not count against your contact limit until they confirm their subscription.

==== How can I enable double opt-in for my forms? ====
You can enable '''double opt-in''' by accessing the form settings in your ActiveCampaign account and selecting the appropriate confirmation settings.

==== What can I do if my confirmation emails are not being received? ====
Check that the email address provided is valid, ensure it's not going to spam, and verify your email deliverability settings in your ActiveCampaign account.

==== How does double opt-in enhance my email list quality? ====
By ensuring that contacts confirm their email addresses, you reduce the likelihood of adding spam accounts, which can enhance engagement and lower bounce rates.

==== Is there a guideline on when to use double versus single opt-in? ====
Consider your business objectives, target audience, and compliance needs. Use '''double opt-in''' for engagement-focused needs and '''single opt-in''' for faster list growth.

For more guidance on managing subscriptions, see the [ActiveCampaign help articles on enabling double opt-in](https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/115000839230-How-do-I-enable-double-opt-in-confirmation-). To learn about single opt-in settings, refer to this [help article](https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/220303447-How-do-I-enable-single-opt-in-confirmation-).
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