TXT Record Lookup

What is a TXT record?

Reviewed by Prabath Thalangama · Last updated October 23, 2026

A TXT record stores free-form text on a DNS name. It carries SPF policies, DKIM keys, DMARC policies and the verification codes Google, Microsoft and other services ask you to publish. This lookup lists every TXT record on the exact name you enter, with multi-string values joined into one.

Each TXT value is made of one or more strings of up to 255 characters; long values such as DKIM keys are split into several. This tool joins them without spaces, which is how SPF and DKIM verifiers read them.

Records live on a specific name. DKIM keys are at selector._domainkey.example.com and DMARC at _dmarc.example.com, not on the domain itself. The dedicated email checkers look those up and explain them.

How do I check TXT records?

Enter the exact name, for example example.com, _dmarc.example.com or a provider's verification name.
Find the record you expect and compare it character for character.

How to read the results

value: One row per TXT record, with its strings joined. Two rows starting v=spf1 on the same name is an SPF error.
No TXT records found: Nothing is published on that exact name.

Common TXT record problems

Verification fails although the record exists

The record is on the wrong name, or the panel added quotes or your domain twice. Check the exact name the service asked for.

Two SPF records

A domain may publish only one v=spf1 record. Merge the mechanisms into one record.

v=spf1 include:_spf.google.com include:mailgun.org -all

Examples and command-line equivalents

Look up TXT records

dig +short TXT example.com
dig +short TXT _dmarc.example.com
nslookup -type=TXT example.com

Frequently asked questions

Is there a length limit on TXT records?

Each quoted string inside a TXT record can be at most 255 characters. Longer values such as 2048-bit DKIM keys are split into several strings, which receivers join together.

Can I have several TXT records on one name?

Yes. Verification codes, SPF and other values can sit side by side on the same name. The exception is SPF: only one v=spf1 record is allowed.

Can I delete old verification TXT records?

Usually, once the service is set up, but some providers (Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, for example) recheck periodically. Check the provider's documentation before removing one.