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Basic how-to for free postings    JOB POSTERS please click here
More guidelines
How do I post a free posting?

To post a free posting, visit the home page and click on the "post to classifieds" link at upper left.

You can post a free ad without having an account or logging in, like so:

  1. fill out the posting form and submit your posting.
  2. you'll receive an email containing a link to an online form.
  3. this form will allow you make last-minute changes and then self-publish your posting.
  4. once self-published, your posting will appear on the site within 15 minutes.
  5. keep your email, because you can use the link later to edit or delete the posting at any time.
  6. if you lose or delete this email, and need it later, you can have it resent.

Having a craigslist account will allow you to post, edit, delete, and repost more easily.

How can I edit my posting?

Edits for postings are now self-service (except for jobs).

If you posted while logged in to your account, you can edit from your account homepage.

Otherwise, use the link provided in the same self-posting email you used originally to self-post. If you can't find this, try having it re-sent.

Note: Editing your post will not bring it to the top of the list. You'll need to post a new listing for that (please, no more often than every 48 hours).

How soon does my posting expire?
Posting Type Boston, Chicago, DC, LA, NYC, Portland, Sacramento, San Diego, Seattle, SF Bay Area All other cities
Classifieds 7 days 45 days
Resumes 30 days 45 days
Jobs 30 days 45 days
Gigs 30 days 45 days
Events Until posted event date range expires

NOTE: Brokered housing posts in New York City expire in 30 days.

How can I delete my posting?

If you posted using an account, you can delete your posting from your account homepage.

Otherwise, use the same link provided in the self-posting email that you used to post the ad originally. If you can't find this, try having it re-sent.

Please note, all postings are automatically deleted upon expiration.

How do I repost my posting?

You'll need to submit a new posting. Staff will not repost a free listing for you.

How often can I post?

You may post to one category and in one city, no more than once every 48 hours.

If you try to post something similar to an active post of yours on the site, you may get a blocked message. Removing the similar active post should help, unless it is less than 48 hours old.

 

How can I post anonymously and still receive responses?

When submitting a posting, you are asked to provide your email address.

You have three options:

  1. Your email address can appear in your posting just as you have typed it.
  2. You can anonymize your email address. Responses are relayed to your actual email address.
  3. No email address shown at all - you'll need to provide contact information in the "Other ways people should contact you" box.

"Anonymize" is generally recommended, and is the default option.

If you are posting in the personal categories, option #1 is not available.

I have not received the email to self-publish my free posting, what should I do?

If you  submitted your posting, but have not received the email to self-publish your post:

  • If you are using an online email account, please check your bulk/junk/spam mail folder(s).
  • You may have entered your email address incorrectly  -- it only takes one typo!
  • Some email providers and ISPs have implemented "spam filters" some of which are badly designed or misconfigured, resulting in craigslist emails being filtered out or intercepted.
  • Your email provider may be experiencing delays, or other technical issues.
Can I add a picture to my posting?

In some categories, you will be offered the option to "Add Images" during the posting process. You will be prompted to upload images from your computer to craigslist.

Alternatively, you can use the <img> tag to include images hosted elsewhere in your posting. There are many free image sites where you can upload images, search for "free web hosting" on any search engine. If you choose this alternative, you'll be using HTML, so see the next question.

Can I use HTML tags or URLs in my posting?

If you just want to include a link in your posting, no HTML is needed,  just be sure your link starts with "http://" and it should be converted to an active link.

For something fancier than a link, you'll need to use HTML in your posting body

Please use HTML sparingly. Users generally prefer ads with little or no added HTML.

Please use only HTML tags appropriate for the <body> section of a document.

No support is provided for JavaScript, applets, Flash, or other embedded non-HTML content.

For more information see our HTML Guidelines.

If you use HTML in any part of your posting you must use it throughout.

What kind of postings are prohibited?

Please consult the Terms of Use.

Category-specific guidelines posted in specific sections of the site must also be observed

For your reference there is also a non-comprehensive list of items prohibited for sale or trade.

What should I do if someone harasses me by posting a prank posting?

If you  are the target of a prank or other harassment related to a craigslist post, please contact us immediately (choose the "harassment" option) and ask to have the posting removed. Please provide us with any information you have to help us locate the posting(s) related to the issue.

Can I post my ad on more than one craigslist site?

Please choose just ONE local craigslist site for which your ad is most relevant - generally the site closest to you. If your ad is equally relevant to all locations, your ad does not belong on  craigslist, please find another service. Posting the same ad to multiple locations on craigslist is prohibited.

Where do focus group opportunities go on the site?

Focus group opportunities can be posted to the "et cetera" jobs category, or in the "gigs" section.

I saw a particular posting 6 months ago and would like to see it again. Can I?

Generally not. We will however respond to a valid subpoena for that information.

Where can I advertise my services/business on craigslist?

Only in the "services offered" categories please.

Can I post ads on craigslist on behalf of others as a paid posting agent or posting service?

Offering a posting service, or acting as a Posting Agent is prohibited. Violators agree to pay liquidated damages for each posting made.

Can I put a link in my for sale posting pointing to an auction site like ebay?

No. Please post a set price, do not solicit bidding, and do not link to auctions elsewhere.

Can I scalp my ticket or popular gift item on craigslist?

Many users will flag posts scalping tickets or popular gift items for way over face value.


Still have questions? try our help desk discussion forum or send us a note.