What Is Opt-in Information?
When building and managing your email list, it’s important to understand optin information. This information proves that your subscribers have given permission to receive your emails. Collecting and storing it properly helps protect your sending reputation and ensures compliance with email regulations.
The Key Parts of Optin Information
Optin information is typically made up of three (sometimes four) important data points:
1. Optin IP Address
The IP address of the subscriber’s device at the time they signed up.
This shows where the signup originated and provides proof that the subscription was made by a real user.
2. Optin Website or URL
The exact website or landing page where the subscriber signed up.
Useful when managing multiple brands, campaigns, or signup sources.
3. Optin Date
The date (and time) when the subscriber opted in.
If this is the only recorded date, it indicates a single optin.
4. Verified Date (Double Optin)
The date the subscriber confirmed their subscription by clicking a verification link in a confirmation email.
This is also called the double optin date and provides stronger proof of consent.
Why Is Opt-in Information Important?
Compliance: Demonstrates consent for GDPR, CAN-SPAM, and other email regulations.
Deliverability: Helps you defend against spam complaints and maintain good inbox placement.
Transparency: Ensures you can track where, when, and how a subscriber joined your list.
Best Practice: Always use double optin when possible. It gives you the verified date and ensures your list contains only engaged, valid subscribers.