Bluehost Free Domain Credit: How to Claim It

Bluehost offers a free domain credit with many of its hosting plans. This document explains how to claim and use that credit to register a new domain or transfer an existing one.

Eligibility Check

Verify that your Bluehost hosting plan includes a free domain credit. This is usually stated during the signup process and in your account details.

The credit is typically valid for the first year only. Renewal fees apply after the initial period.

Note that some specific TLDs (like .tv, .pro, etc.) might not be covered by the free credit and may incur additional charges.

Claiming Your Free Domain

Log in to your Bluehost account.

Navigate to the 'Domains' section in your Bluehost control panel.

Click on 'Register a new domain'.

Enter the domain name you want to register and select the desired TLD (e.g., .com, .net, .org).

The system will check if the domain is available.

If the domain is available and the TLD is covered by your free credit, the cost will be automatically deducted at checkout.

Complete the registration process by providing the necessary contact information.

Transferring a Domain

If you already own a domain, you can transfer it to Bluehost and use your free credit.

In the 'Domains' section, select 'Transfer a domain'.

Enter the domain name you want to transfer.

You will need the domain's EPP code (also known as an authorization code) from your current registrar.

Unlock the domain at your current registrar.

Enter the EPP code in the Bluehost transfer form.

The transfer process can take several days (typically 5-7 days).

Ensure your contact information at your current registrar is up-to-date before initiating the transfer.

Bluehost will send email updates during the transfer process.

DNS Configuration

After registering or transferring your domain, configure its DNS settings to point to your Bluehost hosting account.

Go to the 'Domains' section in your Bluehost control panel and select the domain you want to manage.

Click on 'Manage' and then 'DNS Zone Editor'.

Bluehost automatically configures the basic DNS records (A record, CNAME, MX records).

You can modify these records or add new ones as needed.

Examples

• Bluehost control panel → Domains → Register a new domain
• Example EPP code: X7R4-Z9P2-K1N8-L3M5
• A record for example.com pointing to 192.0.2.1
• DNS Zone Editor: Adding a TXT record for verification

Tips

• Check the domain's availability before starting the registration process.
• Obtain the EPP code from your current registrar before initiating a domain transfer.
• Update your contact information at both Bluehost and your previous registrar.
• Monitor your email for updates regarding the domain registration or transfer status.

FAQ

Q: What happens after the first year of free domain registration?

A: You will need to renew the domain registration at Bluehost's standard renewal rates. You'll receive email reminders before the renewal date.

Q: Can I use the free domain credit for multiple domains?

A: No, the free domain credit is typically limited to one domain registration per hosting plan.

Q: What if I cancel my Bluehost hosting plan? What happens to my domain?

A: If you cancel your hosting plan, you can still keep the domain, but you will need to pay the standard renewal fee. You can also transfer the domain to another registrar.

This document is for informational purposes only. It is not official and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Bluehost. Information provided here may be outdated and should not be considered professional advice. This document may contain affiliate links.