How to Export Your AOL Mail Contacts

This article explains how to export the address book data out of AOL Mail to use in another email service. The format you choose depends on the preference of the alternate email service provider.

Generating an AOL Mail Contacts File

When you export contacts from the AOL Mail address, the available file formats import the contacts into most email programs and services, either directly or through a translating program.

To save your AOL Mail address book to a file:

1. Go to the AOL Mail folder list, then select Contacts.

2. In the Contacts toolbar, select More, then choose Export.

3. In the Export Contacts dialog box, choose CSV.

4. Select Export.

5. A file titled contacts.csv will download to your computer.

You can import the CSV file into most other email programs (import CSV into Outlook and import CSV into Gmail). Although each email service differs, in general, you import the saved file by looking for the Import option in the email program or in the address book or contacts list that is used by the email program. When you find it, select Import and choose the exported file of your contacts to transfer them to the email service.

Fields and Contact Details Included in an Exported CSV File

AOL Mail exports all the fields a contact has in your address book to the CSV (or plain text or LDIF) file. This includes first and last name, AIM nickname, phone numbers, street addresses, and all email addresses.

Import Contacts from Another Program

If you have a CSV file that contains contacts from another email application, such as Outlook or Gmail, import those contacts into your AOL Mail account.

1. Log in to your AOL Mail account.

2. Go to the folders list and select Contacts.

3. Go to the toolbar at the top of the contact list, select the More drop-down arrow, then choose Import.

4. Select CSV, choose Browse for File, then find the CSV file saved on your computer.

5. Select Open. AOL Mail notifies you that the contact list has been imported.