How to Send File Attachments With AIM Mail or AOL Mail

Add a document to your message

Email computer button for business contact mail

cienpies/Getty Images

by Heinz Tschabitscher
An independent writer who has reviewed hundreds of email programs and services since 1997.
Updated July 29, 2019

So you're ready to email the spreadsheet, document, application, or photo that you've created. OK: Fire up your AIM or AOL Mail account, and recreate it all in an email to send it. That's not how you work?

Of course, it isn't. You'll have to send the files as attachments. Fortunately, both AIM Mail and AOL Mail make delivering attached documents of all sorts a simple, fast affair.

To Attach a File to an Email in AIM Mail or AOL Mail:

  1. Select the Compose button to open a new message in AIM Mail or AOL Mail.

    Screenshot of Compose button and new email in AOL Mail

  2. Select the Choose files to attach button in the toolbar right below the Subject line (look for the paperclip icon). A File Explorer window will open.

    Screenshot of Choose files to attach button

  3. Navigate to the file you want to attach. Choose the file and then select Open. The file will be inserted as an attachment to the email message you are creating.

    Attachment file names cannot include special characters.

    Screenshot of Open window

  4. To attach another file, repeat the last two steps.

  5. Make sure the total size of your message does not exceed the AIM Mail and AOL Mail message size limit of 25MB.

  6. Continue composing your message, and when done, simply send it as usual.

AIM Mail and AOL Mail Message Size Limits

The 25MB you're allowed to send per email includes your message text, the email's headers, and the attachment. If your message exceeds this, consider using a file sending service.