AWS SES Emails Not Delivering: Check Configuration & Bounce Handling
Your AWS SES emails are not being delivered to recipients
Fix immediately.
Check AWS SES delivery status:
In AWS SES console, check if you're still in the sandbox (limited sending)
Review bounce and complaint notifications
Check CloudWatch logs for delivery errors
Verify recipient addresses are not in suppression list
What Could Be Causing This?
AWS SES Account Still in Sandbox Mode
Most CommonNew AWS SES accounts start in sandbox mode, limiting sends to verified addresses only.
How to confirm:
In AWS SES console, under Account Dashboard, check if sandbox mode is active.
Recipient Address Bounced or Complained
Most CommonAWS SES suppresses addresses that have bounced or generated complaints.
How to confirm:
In AWS SES console, check Suppression List for the recipient address.
Fix Playbook
Step 1: Request AWS SES Sandbox Removal
- If you're in sandbox, submit a request to AWS Support
- AWS reviews your use case (usually within 24 hours)
- Once approved, you can send to any address
- Typically approval takes 1-2 business days
AWS SES-Specific Note:
AWS SES sandbox removal is designed to prevent abuse. Be clear about your use case in your request.
Step 2: Clean Your AWS SES Suppression List
- Review addresses in your suppression list
- Remove addresses that should be receiving emails
- Check if removal is appropriate (bounced vs. complained)
- Retry sending to cleaned list
AWS SES-Specific Note:
AWS SES maintains suppression lists to protect sender reputation. Removal is allowed but use carefully.
Prevention Checklist
- Request sandbox removal early if you're a legitimate sender
- Monitor suppression list monthly
- Keep bounce rate below 3% to maintain good standing
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