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
- Proof of Mailing: Certified Mail provides proof of mailing, which can be useful in case of disputes or legal proceedings.
- 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.
- 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.
- Return Receipt: You can request a return receipt, which is a signed receipt from the recipient that is returned to you.
- 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:
- Prepare your mail piece: Make sure your mail piece is properly addressed and packaged.
- 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.
- 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.
- Pay the fee: The cost of Certified Mail is currently $3.45 for a letter-sized mail piece and $4.45 for a package.
- Receive your receipt: You'll receive a receipt with a unique tracking number, which serves as proof of mailing.
Tips and Considerations
- Use the correct form: Make sure to use the correct Certified Mail form (PS Form 3800) and fill it out completely.
- Keep a copy: Keep a copy of the receipt and any other relevant documents for your records.
- Monitor tracking: Monitor the tracking status of your mail piece to ensure it's delivered correctly.
- 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.