Set up folders and labels in Proton Mail Free

A folder gives a message one main place to live. A label adds a tag without moving it. Proton Free allows up to three custom folders and three labels (opens in a new tab).

This example creates a practice folder and label. Applying them to your own mail follows Proton's documented controls.

1. Create one folder

1. Open Proton Mail (opens in a new tab).
2. Click the + beside Folders, labelled Create a new folder.
3. Enter Practice receipts. Keep No parent folder for a top-level folder.
4. Review the notification choice, then click Save.

2. Create a label

1. Click the + beside Labels.
2. Enter Practice follow-up, choose a color and click Save.
3. Expand Folders and Labels. Check that both names appear.

Enlarge image

Proton Mail sidebar with a fictional folder and follow-up label

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3. Apply the system to a message

According to Proton's instructions, select a message, open Move to, select a folder and click Apply. It leaves the original folder. To tag it, use the label control, choose your label and apply it instead.

Start with a harmless message. Reopen the target folder or label to check the result. Leave automatic sender rules off while learning manual steps.

If you cannot create another

Count existing custom folders and labels. Reuse an appropriate name rather than upgrading just for this example. Manage names through Settings, All settings, then Folders and labels.

To try this folder-and-label system, start with Proton Mail Free (opens in a new tab) and one harmless practice message. Use your existing account if you already have one; this exercise does not require an upgrade.

Source: Folders, labels and Free limits (opens in a new tab).