Glossary
Compliance & Governance

CAN SPAM Header

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
July 16, 2025

Definition:

A CAN SPAM Header is an email metadata section that provides sender and source information required by the CAN-SPAM Act.
A CAN SPAM Header is a section in an email’s metadata that provides key sender and message information required by the CAN-SPAM Act, a U.S. law regulating commercial email. The header details the source of the email, including the sender’s email address, the originating domain, and the path the message took to reach the recipient. This transparency is crucial for preventing deceptive practices, such as hiding the sender's identity or misleading recipients. Nonprofits, like all organizations, must ensure their emails comply with CAN-SPAM requirements, including using accurate headers, to avoid penalties and maintain trust with their audience.

Key Takeaways

  • CAN SPAM Headers are required by U.S. law for commercial emails.
  • They ensure transparency by identifying the sender and message route.
  • Nonprofits must use accurate headers to avoid penalties.

Why It Matters

Accurate headers help nonprofits comply with laws and maintain donor trust.

Real World Example

Imagine a nonprofit launching an email campaign for a fundraising event. To comply with U.S. laws, each email sent from their system, such as Keela, includes a CAN SPAM Header. This header clearly identifies the nonprofit as the sender, includes the correct reply-to address, and shows the route the message took to reach donors’ inboxes. This transparency not only fulfills legal obligations but also reassures recipients that the message is legitimate and safe to open. If the nonprofit neglected to include accurate header information, their emails could be flagged as spam or result in legal consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CAN SPAM Header?

A CAN SPAM Header is an email metadata section that provides sender and routing information, required for compliance with the CAN-SPAM Act.

Why do nonprofits need to use CAN SPAM Headers?

Nonprofits must use accurate CAN SPAM Headers to comply with email laws, avoid penalties, and build trust with supporters.

How does Keela ensure CAN SPAM compliance?

Keela’s email tools automatically generate compliant headers for all outgoing mass communications, helping nonprofits meet legal standards.

Related Terms

Accessibility Compliance
Automation Trigger in a Nonprofit CRM
Average Gift Size
Board Member Profile
Bounce Rate
CASL Compliance

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