SPF Alignment
SPF alignment means the domain that passed SPF (typically the Return-Path / MAIL FROM domain) aligns with the header From domain under DMARC rules.
Why ESPs break SPF alignment
Many ESPs use their own bounce domains. SPF may pass for the ESP domain while DMARC still fails for your brand From address unless custom Return-Path / alignment features are enabled—or you rely on aligned DKIM instead.
Relaxed vs strict
aspf=r allows organizational alignment; aspf=s requires exact match.
v=DMARC1; p=none; aspf=r; rua=mailto:[email protected]How QuickDMARC helps
See whether sources fail DMARC due to SPF alignment specifically, then fix ESP settings or lean on DKIM alignment.
Frequently asked questions
Is SPF alignment required if DKIM aligns?
No. Either aligned SPF or aligned DKIM yields DMARC pass.
Does forwarding break SPF alignment?
Forwarding often breaks SPF entirely; prefer surviving aligned DKIM.
Related?
See DMARC alignment and DKIM alignment guides.