Going Live With Your Hatch Domain

Your domain is the name that clients will enter into their browsers to find your Hatch site. This article will explain how Hatch domains work, what information is required for setup, and what to expect before your site is ready to go live. If you already own a domain, Hatch can help connect it to your site using the required domain settings. If you do not already have a domain, you may be able to select or configure one during the Hatch setup process.

Use this article as your guide to learn more about choosing a domain name and what happens during the domain setup workflow.

What should I do first?

Start by confirming whether you already own a domain name.

• Using a domain that you already own? - If you already own a domain, make sure you can access the account where the domain is managed. This is usually the company where you originally bought your domain, such as GoDaddy, Namecheap, Squarespace, or Cloudflare.
• Registering a New Domain? If you do not already own a domain, don't worry! Simply follow the Hatch setup process in the Hatch Agent Portal to search and select for your FREE Hatch domain name.

What is a domain?

A domain is the website that clients, recruits, and prospects will use to find your Hatch site. For example, a domain may look something like: YourAgencyName.com. Once your Hatch site is live, your domain will direct visitors to your Hatch site.

Do I need a domain for my Hatch site?

Yes, your Hatch site needs a domain so visitors have a web address they can use to access your personal website. During the setup process, you can either connect a domain that you already own OR select a new domain for your Hatch site.

Can I use a domain I already own?

Absolutely! If you already own a domain, you can connect it to your Hatch site.

To use your own domain name, you will need access to the account where your domain is managed. If you are unsure where your domain is managed, check your email for domain purchase receipts, renewal notices, or account notifications from your domain provider.

What if I do not already own a domain?

If you do not already own a domain, you can simply search for an available domain in the Hatch Agent Portal. Choose a domain that is professional, easy to spell, and closely connected to your name or your agency.

What are DNS records?

DNS records are settings that tell the internet where to send your site visitors when they type in your domain.

If you are connecting a domain that you already own, certain DNS records may need to be added or updated through your domain provider. These records allow your domain to point to your Hatch site. Do not guess or change unrelated records and only use the domain instructions provided in the Hatch Agent Portal for your Hatch setup.

Will connecting my domain affect my e-mail?

It should not affect your e-mail if only the required website-related DNS records are updated correctly. However, your domain may also have e-mail related records, such as MX or TXT records. Do not delete or change those records unless you are specifically instructed to do so by the correct Quility Support team member.

If you use your domain for e-mail, such as 'agent_admin@myhatchwebsite.com', let Hatch Support know before making DNS changes so the setup can be reviewed carefully.

How long does it take for my domain to connect?

Some domain updates may appear quickly, while others can take several hours to fully update across the internet.

In many cases, domain verification can be completed the same day after the correct DNS records are added. However, timing can vary depending on your domain provider and how long their system takes to process the changes.

Can I change my domain after my site is live?

At this time, domain changes are not currently support from the Admin Portal, and require additional setup and verification. If you need to change your domain after your site has already been published, contact Hatch Support before making changes. This helps avoid downtime, broken links, or sending visitors to the wrong site.

Where should I go next?

After your domain is selected or connected, use these articles to complete the rest of your Hatch setup:

• Build Your Site:  Complete your profile, agency details, contact information, license information, and site content.
• Connect Your Calendar:  Add your Calendly link so visitors can schedule time with you.
• Capture & Convert Hatch Leads:  Learn how visitors submit information and how Hatch leads are handled.
• Understanding the Direct-to-Consumer Experience:  Learn how eligible visitors can begin the application process from your Hatch site.
• Getting Started with Hatch:  Return to the main overview of Hatch setup.