How to Set an Auto-Reply for an Inactive Gmail Account

Skillz January 18, 2022

0 6 3 minutes read

How to Set an Auto-Reply for an Inactive Gmail Account: If you’re trying to put an old Gmail account to bed but are worried about emails still getting through, here’s how to set up a handy auto-reply.

While there are various reasons you could abandon an old Gmail account, this can cause concern for individuals who are used to emailing you with it. Without a response, people would conclude that something awful occurred to you.

Thankfully, there is a means to let other users know that your email address isn’t being used anymore. To accomplish this, you have to set an auto-reply for your inactive Gmail account.

To arrange an auto-reply for your inactive account, you will need to edit your Inactive Account Manager. Here’s how to get it set up properly.

When Is a Gmail Account Counted as Inactive?

By default, if you have not entered into to your Google Account for more than 24 months at a period, Google will presume that you are no longer using it. This includes your non-Gmail log-in history that is linked to your Google account, such as YouTube, Chat, Search, Maps, and so on.

Gmail on Laptop

Alternatively, if you want to set this to an earlier date, you may also change how long until Google marks your entire account as inactive. Under your Inactive Account Manager, you’ll be able to select either three, six, 12, or 18 months as waiting periods.

Google will initially attempt to reach you via your alternate contact methods to urge you to log in to your account to avoid deletion. If you do not answer, however, Google will contact your Inactive Account Manager on your behalf.

Meanwhile, you can configure an auto-reply message, which will notify everyone who emails you about the status of your Gmail account. Additionally, there are additional ways to manage numerous Gmail accounts while you’re at it.

If you want to prepare for the possibility that you will lose access to your Gmail account or will be unable to log in, you can create an auto-reply email that will link recipients to alternate contact ways. How to configure it is as follows.

How to Configure an Inactive Gmail Account to Send an Auto-Response

Follow the steps below to configure an auto-reply for an inactive Gmail account:

Navigate to the settings page for your Google account.
Select “Privacy & Data” from the drop-down menu.
Make a strategy for your digital legacy under Additional alternatives.
You can customize your Google account’s legacy settings by visiting the Inactive Account Manager page.
Start by selecting Plan what happens to your info if you’re no longer able to utilize our Google Account.
Enter a secondary contact information, such as a mobile phone number or email address.
Next is the appropriate button.
Set AutoReply by clicking the button.
Configure Google Inactivity Manager to send automatic responses
In the pop-up box, enter your desired email topic and message.
Select the box next to Only send a response to persons in my Contacts if you want your message to be sent to only your contacts.
To confirm your auto-response, select Save.

On the same page, click Add Person to designate a person to serve as your Inactivity Account Manager in the event that you do not answer.
Confirm the individual who will be notified when the account manager becomes inactive.
Click Next when you’re satisfied with your auto-reply message.
To remove your Google Account after three months of inactivity, toggle on the Yes, delete my dormant Google Account button.
Notify Others About Your New Email Address

While there are a variety of possible reasons for abandoning an old Gmail account, this may raise concern for individuals who are accustomed to emailing you through it. After all, email may be your sole mode of communication with certain personal or professional relationships.

Create an auto-reply for your Gmail account in order to avoid future miscommunications. This includes alternative contact information for you, as well as people they can contact in the event of your absence.