Do you get a free domain with Squarespace? Even if you are starting out with your membership website and want to include Squarespace membership areas, you will need to register a domain name.
A domain name does come with an annual fee, but in this article, we look into how your domain name works with Squarespace.
Do You Get A Free Domain With Squarespace?
Yes, you get a free domain with Squarespace, but only when you purchase one of their annual website subscriptions. The free domain applies to all their plans, but only for the first year.
Here’s how it works:
- Eligibility: When you sign up for any annual billing plan on Squarespace, you’re eligible for a free domain for the first year. This offer is valid for both new domains and for transferring an existing, eligible domain to Squarespace.
- Domain Registration Process: During the website set-up process, Squarespace will prompt you to choose a domain. If you select an annual plan, your domain will be free for the first year. If you’re transferring an existing domain, you’ll need to follow Squarespace’s transfer process.
- Domain Management: Managing your domain through Squarespace is very straightforward. They offer tools to set up DNS settings, email forwarding, and other domain-related features directly from your Squarespace account dashboard. Squarespace domain users also receive a free SSL certificate so your visitors know your site is secure.
- After The First Year: Once your first (or free) year is complete your domain will need to be renewed at the TLD (Top Level Domain) rate. The renewal cost typically varies between $20-50 per year and depends on the type of TLD you have chosen (.com, .org, .net, etc).
- Considerations: While the free domain is an added bonus, it’s important to include the annual renewal costs in your long-term budgeting. Additionally, if you decide to leave Squarespace, you can transfer your domain to another provider, but you’ll need to unlock your domain and be prepared to wait up to 15 business days to complete the transfer.
Squarespace’s free domain offer for the first year is a great deal when you sign up for one of their annual plans. This offer simplifies the process of getting your website up and running and provides an additional cost-saving incentive for choosing an annual billing cycle.
How Much Does Squarespace Charge For Domains?
Squarespace charges $20-50 per year for domain registrations, depending on the TLD extension. The most popular TLDs like .com, .net, and .org typically cost around $20 annually and offer the best value.
If you purchase an annual website subscription, Squarespace includes the first year of one domain registration for free. After the initial year, standard renewal rates apply. For additional or premium domains, there will be additional costs. These extra costs can only be confirmed during the domain registration process on Squarespace.
Read next: Squarespace Member Login: Your Quick Guide