Fix IMAP folder listing in Thunderbird

Problem

Thunderbird is not listing IMAP folders correctly.

Grey Inbox IMAP folder in Thunderbird
Grey Inbox IMAP folder in Thunderbird

Cause

The Thunderbird IMAP Server Directory needs to be updated in Thunderbird Settings.

Resolution

  • Click Tools > Account Settings
    Click the Tools menu > Account Settings
  • Select your email account from left
  • Click Server Settings
  • Click the Advanced button
    Advanced button Server Settings Thunderbird
    Click the Advanced Button under Server Settings for your account.
  • For IMAP server directory enter INBOX
    IMAP Server Directory Namespace Thunderbird
    Set IMAP Server Directory to INBOX
  • Tick Allow server to override these namespaces
  • Click OK
  • Close and restart Thunderbird for the change to take effect.