How to Add a TXT Record (and Why It Matters)

If you’ve ever been asked to “add a TXT record” to your domain, you might have wondered — what exactly does that mean? Whether you’re setting up Google Workspace, verifying your domain for Facebook or Mailchimp, or tightening up email security (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), TXT records play a big role behind the scenes of your website.

What Is a TXT Record?

A TXT record is a type of DNS record that lets you store text-based information about your domain. Other services read those records to confirm you own the domain or to understand how to handle your email traffic.

Common uses include:

• Domain verification: Prove to Google, Microsoft, or others that you own your domain.
• Email authentication: Set up SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records to reduce spam and improve deliverability.
• Third-party services: Tools like Mailchimp, HubSpot, or Stripe often use TXT records for security checks.

How to Add a TXT Record

The exact process depends on your domain registrar (like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains) or DNS provider (like Cloudflare or your hosting company). But in general, it goes like this:

1. Log in to your domain registrar or DNS host.
2. Find your DNS settings or “Zone Editor.”
3. Click Add Record and choose TXT.
4. In the Name field, enter the hostname (often “@” or “_domainkey”).
5. In the Value field, paste the TXT record text provided by the service.
6. Set the TTL (time to live) — usually leave it at “Auto” or 3600.
7. Save your changes.
8. Wait up to 24–48 hours for DNS propagation.

If that sounds like alphabet soup, you’re not alone — a single typo or misplaced character can cause verification failures or break email delivery entirely.

Why You Should Leave DNS Changes to a Pro

At Austin Web & Design, we handle DNS management for clients every day. Whether it’s verifying domains, setting up SPF/DKIM, or migrating your email to a new provider, we make sure everything works smoothly the first time.

So if you’ve been told to “just add a TXT record,” do yourself a favor — leave it to a pro. We’ll handle the technical details so your site and email stay secure and connected.

We’re here to help — contact Austin Web & Design and we’ll take care of it for you.