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Getting Help with Third-Party Domains on Squarespace

Your domain provider holds the keys to fixing most problems when it comes to dealing with third-party domain issues on Squarespace.

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Getting Help with Third-Party Domains on Squarespace
Last Edited Time
Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
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For third-party domain issues on Squarespace, contact your domain provider for assistance. Use template messages for domain transfers and DNS record changes, verify domain details, and document all communications. Common issues include transfer approvals, SSL certificate generation, and DNS record formatting. Clear communication is key.
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Getting Help with Third-Party Domains on Squarespace

Dealing with third-party domain issues on Squarespace? Your domain provider holds the keys to fixing most problems.

Why You Need Your Domain Provider's Help

You're transferring or connecting a third-party domain to Squarespace, but something's not working. Before you bang your head against the wall, remember this: your domain provider has direct access to your domain's settings. They can see and change things that you (and Squarespace) simply can't.
Start with them first. It'll save you hours of frustration.

How to Contact Your Domain Provider

Squarespace provides template messages you can copy and paste. These cover the essential questions without the technical waffle that might confuse things.

For Domain Transfer Eligibility

Copy this message and fill in your domain name:
"Hi, I want to transfer my domain [your domain name] to Squarespace. Can you confirm if my domain meets these transfer requirements?
  • Not a premium domain listed by the registry
  • Over 60 days old
  • Currently active
  • Unlocked
  • Has less than 9 years left in its registration term
Also, are there any services linked to my domain (like email) that would be affected by the transfer?"

For DNS Record Changes

If you need to connect your domain without transferring it:
"I'm connecting my domain to a Squarespace site and need to add specific DNS records. Can you help me add the records shown in my Squarespace DNS panel?"

Check Your Domain Details First

Before contacting support, verify your domain administrator information is correct. If you've recently updated contact details, your domain might be locked for 60 days (this is standard across the industry).
Document everything. Keep records of all conversations with your domain provider. You'll thank yourself later if issues escalate or you need to reference previous discussions.

Common Technical Issues

Transfer Stuck in Progress

Squarespace shows your transfer is processing, but nothing's happening? Your domain provider needs to approve the transfer on their end. Contact them to confirm they've released the domain.

SSL Certificate Won't Generate

This usually points to CAA record problems. Ask your domain provider to check if CAA records are blocking Squarespace from issuing your SSL certificate.

DNS Records Won't Save

Some domain providers have specific requirements for how DNS records should be formatted. If you're struggling to add the records yourself, ask them to add the records for you using the information from your Squarespace DNS panel.

What to Ask Your Domain Provider

Always confirm these key points:
  • Is my domain eligible for transfer?
  • What services are currently linked to my domain?
  • Is my domain currently locked?
  • Have you received and approved the transfer request?
  • Are there any CAA records that might block SSL certificate generation?

When Transfers Fail

Transfer failures happen. The most common causes are:
  • Domain is locked
  • Incorrect authorization code
  • Domain provider hasn't approved the transfer
  • Recent contact information changes
Work through Squarespace's suggested fixes first, then contact your domain provider with specific error messages.

Quick Reference: DNS Record Types

A Record: Points your domain directly to an IP address (Squarespace's servers)
CNAME Record: Points your domain to another domain name instead of an IP address
TXT Record: Verifies you own the domain and handles security settings
SSL Certificate: Secures your website with HTTPS (the padlock in browsers)
CAA Record: Controls which companies can issue SSL certificates for your domain
Getting your third-party domain working with Squarespace doesn't have to be complicated. Your domain provider has the tools and access to fix most issues quickly. Use the template messages, document your conversations, and don't hesitate to ask for specific help with DNS records or transfer approvals.
The key is clear communication about exactly what you need, rather than generic "it's not working" requests.

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