WordPress can send system emails for actions such as password resets, contact form notifications, user registrations, and order confirmations. If these messages are not arriving, you can test whether WordPress is able to send emails using the PHP mail() function.
One simple way to perform this test is by using the Check Email plugin.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Install the Check Email Plugin
Log in to the WordPress administration panel.
Navigate to:
Plugins → Add New
Search for:
Check Email
Install and activate the plugin.
Step 2: Open the Email Test Tool
After activating the plugin, go to:
Tools → Check Email
This section allows you to send a test message from your WordPress website.
Step 3: Send a Test Email
Enter the email address where you want to receive the test message.
Click the button to send the test email.
WordPress will attempt to send a message using the configured email sending method.
Step 4: Check the Mailbox
Open the mailbox for the address used in the test.
If the message arrives, WordPress is able to send emails from the website.
If the message does not arrive, check:
- The Spam or Junk folder
- The email address entered in the test form
- Mail server logs, if available
- Whether outgoing mail is blocked or limited
- Whether the website should use SMTP instead of the default PHP
mail()function
What to Expect
If the test is successful, the plugin will display a confirmation in WordPress and the test message should appear in the recipient mailbox.
If the test fails, the issue may be related to the hosting mail configuration, PHP mail handling, DNS records, or the receiving mail server.
Important Note
Passing this test only confirms that WordPress can attempt to send email. It does not guarantee that all emails will always be delivered to the inbox.
For better reliability, especially for contact forms and store notifications, consider configuring WordPress to send emails through SMTP.
Summary
To check whether WordPress can send emails, install the Check Email plugin, open Tools → Check Email, and send a test message to your chosen address. If the message arrives, WordPress email sending is working. If it does not arrive, further troubleshooting may be required, such as checking spam folders, server mail settings, or SMTP configuration.