Glossary
SPF Alignment (DMARC)
SPF alignment is the DMARC check that the Return-Path domain matches the From: header’s organizational domain. Relaxed alignment allows subdomain matches; strict requires exact host match. SPF alignment fails when ESPs use their own bounce domain unless you align via DKIM instead.
Typical fix
Branded bounce domains or DKIM d= aligned to your From domain — see DKIM alignment.
FAQ
Does SPF pass imply alignment?
No — pass on the wrong domain still fails DMARC alignment.
What is relaxed vs strict?
Controlled by aspf= in DMARC — relaxed is default for most setups.
Can I align SPF for all ESPs?
Only if Return-Path is under your domain or you rely on DKIM alignment.