Certified postal mail

Certified Mail is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that provides proof of mailing and delivery. Here are some key features and benefits of Certified Mail:

What is Certified Mail?

Certified Mail is a type of mail that is tracked and verified by the USPS. When you send a letter or package via Certified Mail, you receive a receipt with a unique tracking number, which serves as proof of mailing. The recipient also receives a receipt with a signature upon delivery.

Benefits of Certified Mail

  1. Proof of Mailing: Certified Mail provides proof of mailing, which can be useful in case of disputes or legal proceedings.
  2. Proof of Delivery: The recipient's signature upon delivery serves as proof of delivery, which can help resolve disputes or issues related to non-delivery.
  3. Tracking: Certified Mail is tracked by the USPS, which allows you to monitor the status of your mail piece and receive updates on its delivery.
  4. Return Receipt: You can request a return receipt, which is a signed receipt from the recipient that is returned to you.
  5. Insurance: Certified Mail offers insurance coverage up to $5,000 for loss or damage.

How to Send Certified Mail

To send Certified Mail, you can use a USPS post office or online services like USPS Click-N-Ship. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Prepare your mail piece: Make sure your mail piece is properly addressed and packaged.
  2. Go to a USPS post office or use online services: Take your mail piece to a USPS post office or use online services like USPS Click-N-Ship.
  3. Request Certified Mail: Inform the postal clerk or select the Certified Mail option online that you want to send your mail piece via Certified Mail.
  4. Pay the fee: The cost of Certified Mail is currently $3.45 for a letter-sized mail piece and $4.45 for a package.
  5. Receive your receipt: You'll receive a receipt with a unique tracking number, which serves as proof of mailing.

Tips and Considerations

  1. Use the correct form: Make sure to use the correct Certified Mail form (PS Form 3800) and fill it out completely.
  2. Keep a copy: Keep a copy of the receipt and any other relevant documents for your records.
  3. Monitor tracking: Monitor the tracking status of your mail piece to ensure it's delivered correctly.
  4. Request a return receipt: If you want to receive a signed receipt from the recipient, request a return receipt when sending Certified Mail.

Overall, Certified Mail is a reliable and secure way to send important mail pieces, providing proof of mailing and delivery.