# What is double opt-in?

> Double opt-in means new subscribers confirm their email by clicking a link before joining your list. Why it matters for deliverability and consent.

**Double opt-in**: Double opt-in is an email signup process where a new subscriber must confirm their address by clicking a link in a confirmation email before being added.

Double opt-in means a new subscriber confirms their email address by clicking a link in a confirmation message before they are added to your list.

## How it works

1. A visitor enters their email in your signup form.
2. They receive an email asking them to confirm.
3. They click the link, and only then are they on your list.

Single opt-in skips step two: the address is added immediately, whether or not it is real or belongs to the person who typed it.

## Why it is worth the extra step

- **Cleaner lists.** Typos and fake addresses never get in, so fewer of your emails bounce.
- **Better deliverability.** Mail providers trust senders whose recipients wanted the mail.
- **Proof of consent.** You can show that each subscriber confirmed. Many privacy guides recommend it for audiences in Europe.
- **No abuse.** Nobody can sign someone else up to your list.

The cost is that some people never click the confirmation. Those are usually people who would not have read your emails anyway.

## On makerhandle

The [subscribe box](https://makerhandle.com/features/email-subscribers) on makerhandle always uses double opt-in. Only confirmed addresses count toward your list and the free plan's limit of 100. Every email has an unsubscribe link, and you can export confirmed subscribers as CSV any time. Read [grow a newsletter from your link in bio](https://makerhandle.com/blog/grow-newsletter-from-link-in-bio).

## Questions

### What is the difference between single and double opt-in?

Single opt-in adds an address immediately. Double opt-in waits until the person confirms by email.

### Is double opt-in required by GDPR?

GDPR requires consent you can demonstrate; double opt-in is a common way to do that. It is not named as a requirement. Ask a lawyer for your case.

### Does double opt-in reduce signups?

Some people never confirm, but the ones who do are real and interested.

### Does makerhandle use double opt-in?

Yes, always, for its built-in subscribe box.

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Source: https://makerhandle.com/glossary/double-opt-in
makerhandle: makerhandle is a link in bio for makers and founders: every project with its status and revenue verified from Stripe, Paddle and more.