How To Create A Distribution List In Outlook

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a distribution list in Outlook?

  An Outlook distribution list is a saved collection of email addresses that functions as a single recipient, enabling users to send messages to multiple contacts simultaneously without entering individual addresses. Make a distribution list in Outlook to reduce email composition time for recurring group communications. Unlike CC/BCC fields requiring manual entry each time, distribution lists store member information permanently for instant reuse.

• Can I create a distribution list in Outlook?

  Yes, all Outlook versions including Outlook 365 (web), Outlook for Windows, and Legacy Outlook for Mac support distribution list creation at no additional cost. Create a new distribution list in Outlook for free with the processes outlined in this guide.

• How do I create a distribution list in Outlook?

  How To Create A Distro List In Outlook:

  Creating a mailing list in Outlook takes only a few short minutes: Access the People/Contacts section, click "Create contact list" or "New Contact Group," enter a descriptive name, add member email addresses (manually or imported), then save.
  
  

• How do I create a personal distribution list in Outlook?

  An Outlook personal distribution list remains private to your account only and is not visible to other organization members. Create a personal distribution list in Outlook through the same process as above. In Outlook 365, create personal lists under "My Contacts" rather than shared folders. Windows Outlook users should save to "Contacts" not "Public Folders." 

• How do I edit a distribution list in Outlook?

  Edit distribution lists by navigating to People/Contacts, locating your list, then double-clicking or selecting Edit. Add members by clicking the plus icon and entering new addresses, remove members by selecting and deleting, or rename lists by modifying the title field. 

• How do I create a distribution list in Outlook 365?

  Outlook 365's streamlined process requires just three clicks: Open outlook.office.com, click People icon, select "Create contact list." Enter your list name (e.g., "Sales Team 2025"), add email addresses separated by semicolons or Enter key, then click Create button. The web-based interface automatically validates email formats and syncs lists across all connected devices. 

• How do I share a distribution list in Outlook?

  Share distribution lists using three methods depending on recipient needs: Export as CSV file (universal compatibility), forward as Outlook contact attachment (preserves all properties), or share via organizational Global Address List (enterprise only). Recipients import by dragging the attachment to their Contacts folder - maintaining full membership roster and properties.

• How do I save a distribution list in Outlook?

  How To Save A Distribution List in Outlook:

  Distribution lists automatically save to your default Contacts folder upon creation, with cloud backup in Microsoft 365 accounts. For additional backup: Windows users export via File > Open & Export > Import/Export choosing CSV format; Outlook 365 users download through Settings > View all Outlook settings > General > Export; Mac users drag contact groups to desktop creating .vcf files. Regular exports prevent data loss and enable list sharing.

• How do I create a distribution list in Outlook from Excel?

  Import Excel email lists into Outlook distribution lists in under 5 minutes: Format Excel with email addresses in column A (no headers), save as CSV file, then in Outlook navigate to File > Open & Export > Import/Export. Select "Import from another program," choose CSV, map the email field, and import to the Contacts folder. Create a new distribution list and use "Add Members > From Outlook Contacts" to select all imported addresses simultaneously.

• How do I find my distribution list in Outlook?

  Locate distribution lists through multiple access points: In Outlook 365, click People > All contact lists; Windows Outlook users find lists in Contacts folder marked with special group icon; Mac shows under Contacts with double-silhouette symbol. Use a search bar with list name or member email to quickly locate specific groups. Recently used lists also appear in email address autocomplete suggestions when composing new messages– try trying the first 3 letters of your list name.