550 5.2.1: The mailbox is disabled
The account exists but has been switched off, suspended or deactivated, usually because it was abandoned or broke the provider's rules.
Hard bounce The address is bad. Don't keep sending to it.
What the bounce message looks like
The wording changes from one provider to another. These are typical examples:
550 5.2.1 The email account that you tried to reach is inactive. (Gmail)550 5.2.1 Mailbox unavailable. This account has been disabled or discontinuedCommon causes
- An inactive free account that the provider disabled
- A suspended account
- A former employee's mailbox that was turned off but not deleted
How to fix it if you sent the email
- Remove the address from your list.
- Contact the person another way if the message matters.
If you manage the receiving or sending mail system
- Re-enable the account if it was disabled by mistake.
- Note: Gmail also uses 550 5.2.1 when a person is receiving mail too fast to accept more. If the bounce text says that, the address is fine; try again later.
Free tool: paste the full bounce into the bounce message decoder to get a plain-English reading of every code in it.
Questions people ask
- What does 550 5.2.1 mean?
- The account exists but has been switched off, suspended or deactivated, usually because it was abandoned or broke the provider's rules.
- Is 550 5.2.1 a hard or soft bounce?
- Hard bounce. The address is bad. Don't keep sending to it.
- Should I remove the address after a 5.2.1 bounce?
- Yes. Remove it from your list, or confirm a new address with the person first.