The present invention relates to new pigment compositions, coating compositions and methods for making the new compositions, such as coatings for ink jet receiving materials. The coated inkjet receiving material can provide improved printability. The pigment composition can be prepared by dispersing a carbonate pigment with at least one anionic dispersant The predispersed carbonate can then combined with at least one cationic polymer, such as a polyquaternary ammonium polymer or polyamine capable of being converted to a polyquaternary ammonium polymer.