Can you mail forward permanently

The convenience of mail forwarding! While it's possible to set up a permanent mail forwarding arrangement, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind.

Permanent Mail Forwarding:

In the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) allows you to set up a permanent mail forwarding arrangement, also known as a "Permanent Forwarding Order." This means that any mail sent to your old address will be forwarded to your new address indefinitely, unless you cancel the service.

To set up a permanent mail forwarding arrangement:

  1. Fill out Form 3575, "Change of Address" (available on the USPS website or at your local post office).
  2. Indicate that you want to set up a permanent forwarding order.
  3. Pay the applicable fee (currently $1.05 per month, or $12.60 per year).

Limitations and Considerations:

While permanent mail forwarding can be convenient, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Cost: As mentioned earlier, there's a monthly or annual fee associated with permanent mail forwarding.
  2. Timeframe: The USPS recommends that you set up a permanent forwarding order for a minimum of 6 months to ensure that all mail is forwarded.
  3. Mail volume: If you receive a high volume of mail, the USPS may not be able to forward all of it, and some items may be returned to the sender.
  4. Special handling: Some mail items, such as packages, may require special handling and may not be forwarded.
  5. Expiration: Permanent mail forwarding arrangements can be canceled at any time, and the USPS will notify you 30 days in advance of the cancellation.
  6. Address changes: If you change your address again, you'll need to update your permanent forwarding order.

Alternatives:

If you don't need permanent mail forwarding, you can consider alternative options:

  1. Temporary mail forwarding: Set up a temporary forwarding order for a specific period, such as 6 months or 1 year.
  2. Mail forwarding services: Private companies offer mail forwarding services, which can be more convenient and flexible than the USPS's permanent forwarding option.
  3. Digital mail forwarding: Some companies offer digital mail forwarding services, which allow you to receive and manage your mail online.

In summary, while permanent mail forwarding can be a convenient option, it's essential to consider the limitations and fees associated with this service. You may want to explore alternative options that better suit your needs.