Can the post office hold mail while on vacation

Yes, the United States Postal Service (USPS) allows you to hold your mail while you're on vacation. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Suspend Mail Delivery: Go to the USPS website (usps.com) and click on "Hold Mail" under the "Mail & Ship" tab. Fill out the online form with your name, address, and the dates you'd like to suspend mail delivery.
2. Visit a Post Office: Alternatively, you can visit your local post office and ask to suspend mail delivery. Bring a valid photo ID and proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement).
3. Fill out a Form 3811: The post office will provide you with a Form 3811, "Request for Suspension of Mail Delivery." Fill out the form with your name, address, and the dates you'd like to suspend mail delivery.
4. Get a Temporary Forwarding Order: If you'd like to have your mail forwarded to a different address while you're away, you can request a Temporary Forwarding Order. This will forward your mail to a specific address for a set period of time (up to 30 days).

Important Notes:

• You can suspend mail delivery for up to 30 days.
• If you're going to be away for more than 30 days, you'll need to contact your local post office to request an extension.
• Suspended mail delivery will not affect your mail delivery schedule for packages or Priority Mail.
• If you have a PO box, you'll need to contact the post office where your PO box is located to suspend mail delivery.

By suspending mail delivery, you can help prevent mail theft and keep your mail safe while you're away on vacation.