If your BIMI logo isn't showing up correctly in inboxes, you’re not alone. It’s actually one of the most common issues companies face when implementing BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification).

The good news: most problems have simple fixes. Let's walk through the top causes and how to solve them quickly to get your BIMI logo displayed properly.

Your DMARC Policy Isn't at Enforcement

Without DMARC at enforcement, BIMI won't work — plain and simple. If your policy isn't set to "quarantine" or "reject," inbox providers won't trust your authentication enough to display your logo.

Fix: Update your DMARC record to use p=quarantine or p=reject. If you're not ready to enforce yet, tools like MxToolbox Delivery Center can help you safely move toward compliance without hurting deliverability. Also, use MxToolbox's free DMARC Lookup to verify your enforcement status instantly.

Your BIMI Record Isn't Properly Configured

Think of your BIMI record like a mailing address — if it's incorrect, your "package" (logo) won't arrive.

Fix: Double-check that your BIMI record follows this format: default._bimi.yourdomain.com. IN TXT "v=BIMI1; l=https://yourdomain.com/logo.svg; a=https://yourdomain.com/vmc.pem;" Even a small typo or missing semicolon can break it. Check your BIMI record for free using the MxToolbox BIMI Lookup Tool.

You're Missing a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC)

A Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) or Common Mark Certificate (CMC) proves that your organization owns the logo you're trying to display. Without it, inboxes won't show your brand image.

Fix: Get a VMC from an authorized provider. Think of it like a passport for your logo — confirming it's authentic and safe to display. MxToolbox Delivery Center can help track your certificate and alert you when renewal is needed.

Your Logo Doesn't Meet BIMI Requirements

Even with a perfect setup, a non-compliant logo will fail BIMI validation.

Fix: Make sure your logo:

• Is in SVG Tiny PS format
• Is square (1:1 aspect ratio)
• Has a transparent background
• Avoid gradients or complex shapes that might not render properly across inbox providers.

The Recipient's Mailbox Doesn't Support BIMI

Sometimes, it's not you — it's them. If the receiving provider doesn't support BIMI yet, your logo simply won't display.

Fix: There's no direct solution here except patience. The good news? Support is expanding fast. Major providers like Google, Yahoo!, and Apple Mail already display BIMI logos — and more continue to join. Check the latest list of BIMI-supporting inbox providers here.

Your BIMI Record Isn't Being Cached Yet

DNS caching delays can make it look like your BIMI record isn't working when it's just taking time to propagate.

Fix: Wait at least 24–48 hours after making changes. If the issue persists beyond that, double-check your DNS configuration or contact your email service provider.

Implementing BIMI doesn't have to be guesswork. With MxToolbox Delivery Center, you can:

• Validate your BIMI and DMARC setup.
• Monitor DNS changes and record propagation.
• Get instant alerts for compatibility issues.
• See a live preview of how your logo appears in inboxes.

BIMI is one of the simplest ways to build trust, visibility, and engagement in your email program (can boost open rates by up to 10%) — but only if it's properly configured. By double-checking your DMARC enforcement, BIMI record, logo format, and certificates, you'll ensure your brand shines where it matters most: the inbox.

Check your BIMI record now!