SMTP Error Encyclopedia · Entry 027

Host does not accept mail

Generic · Routing · 521 5.2.1

Exact response pattern521 5.2.1 Host does not accept mail
PermanentGenericRouting

What it means

The destination host is not configured to receive SMTP mail.

Likely causes

  • Wrong MX target.
  • Domain intentionally does not accept mail.

Recommended response

  1. Verify the recipient domain and MX records.
  2. Do not retry indefinitely.
Operational rule: Preserve the complete SMTP response, remote hostname, sending IP, envelope sender and timestamp. Never diagnose from the three-digit code alone.

Related entries

Browse all SMTP errors Decode a bounce

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