Importing groups
Last updated August 5, 2026
Objective
This guide outlines the process for importing contacts and automatically assigning them to specific groups within Recur. By using a properly formatted spreadsheet, you can migrate large lists from other software and have Recur handle the categorization for you.
Key Steps
Step 1: Access the Import Tool
In Recur, there is only one specific location to perform contact and group imports:
Navigate to the top menu and click on Contacts.
Select People from the dropdown menu.
In the top right-hand corner of the People page, click the Import button.
Step 2: Download the Template
To ensure your data maps correctly to Recur’s database:
Click on New Contacts within the import menu.
Select Download Import Template.
This provides a CSV/spreadsheet file with the exact column headers required by the system.
Step 3: Prepare Your Spreadsheet
If you are moving from another Association Management Software (AMS), you can copy and paste your existing data into the Recur template.
Groups Column: Locate the column labeled Group Name.
Single Group: Simply type the name of the group (e.g., "Admin").
Multiple Groups: If a person belongs to more than one category, list all group names in the same cell and separate them with a comma (e.g., "Board Member, Admin").
Step 4: Upload and Automate
Save your completed spreadsheet and return to the Contacts > People > Import screen.
Upload the file.
Automatic Categorization: As the contacts are imported, Recur will read the "Group Name" column. It will automatically create any new groups mentioned and place the corresponding people into those groups.
Cautionary Notes
Comma Usage: Use a standard comma to separate multiple groups. Do not use semicolons or other symbols, as the system specifically looks for commas to differentiate group names.
Exact Matching: If you are trying to add people to existing groups, ensure the spelling in your spreadsheet matches the group name in Recur exactly (including capitalization).
Tips for Efficiency
Bulk Migration: This is the fastest way to set up your association’s structure. Instead of creating groups and adding members one by one, handle it entirely within your Excel or Google Sheets file before importing.
Clean Data: Use this import process as an opportunity to audit your member list. Ensure names and emails are correct in the spreadsheet to avoid creating duplicate or "broken" contact records.