Definition certified 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's a breakdown of the definition:
What is Certified Mail?
Certified Mail is a service that allows senders to track and verify the delivery of their mail. When you use Certified Mail, the USPS provides a unique tracking number and a receipt that serves as proof of mailing. This receipt is signed by the recipient, which helps to prevent disputes over delivery.
Key Features:
- Tracking Number: A unique tracking number is assigned to each Certified Mail piece, allowing the sender to track the delivery status online.
- Proof of Mailing: The USPS provides a receipt that serves as proof of mailing, which includes the tracking number, date of mailing, and the recipient's signature.
- Proof of Delivery: The recipient signs for the Certified Mail piece, providing proof of delivery.
- Return Receipt: If the recipient refuses to sign for the Certified Mail piece, the USPS will return it to the sender with a notation indicating that the recipient refused to sign.
Benefits:
- Proof of Delivery: Certified Mail provides a paper trail that can be used to prove delivery, which is essential for legal, business, and personal purposes.
- Tracking and Verification: The tracking number allows senders to monitor the delivery status of their mail and verify that it has been received.
- Reduced Disputes: Certified Mail helps to reduce disputes over delivery, as the proof of mailing and delivery provides a clear record of the transaction.
Types of Certified Mail:
- Certified Mail with Return Receipt: This type of Certified Mail includes a return receipt that is signed by the recipient and returned to the sender.
- Certified Mail with Restricted Delivery: This type of Certified Mail requires the recipient to sign for the mail and can only be delivered to the addressee.
Overall, Certified Mail is a reliable and secure way to send important documents and packages, providing proof of mailing and delivery.