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534 5.7.9: Application-specific password required (Gmail)

Your Google Account has 2-Step Verification on, so Gmail wants an app password from this app, not your normal password.

By David Ray · Updated October 17, 2026 · How we research

Sign-in problem Your app or device couldn't sign in to your own mail server, so the message was never sent. Fix the sign-in settings.

What the bounce message looks like

The wording changes from one provider to another. These are typical examples:

534-5.7.9 Application-specific password required. For more information, go to https://support.google.com/mail/?p=InvalidSecondFactor

Common causes

How to fix it if you sent the email

If you manage the receiving or sending mail system

Questions people ask

What does 534 5.7.9 mean?
Your Google Account has 2-Step Verification on, so Gmail wants an app password from this app, not your normal password.
Is 534 5.7.9 a hard or soft bounce?
Sign-in problem. Your app or device couldn't sign in to your own mail server, so the message was never sent. Fix the sign-in settings.
Should I remove the address after a 5.7.9 bounce?
No. The message never left your own mail server. Fix the sign-in or sender settings and send again.