Do the post office charge to redirect mail
In the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) does charge a fee for forwarding mail, also known as "mail forwarding" or "change of address." The fee varies depending on the type of mail and the length of time you want the forwarding service to be in effect.
Here are the current USPS fees for forwarding mail:
- Domestic Mail Forwarding: $1.05 per package or piece of mail (up to 70 lbs)
- International Mail Forwarding: $2.15 per package or piece of mail (up to 70 lbs)
- Premium Forwarding: $20.00 per month (up to 5 packages or pieces of mail per month, up to 70 lbs)
The Premium Forwarding service is a more comprehensive option that includes:
- Forwarding of mail, packages, and periodicals
- Holding of mail for up to 30 days
- Notification of incoming mail via email or text message
- Option to have mail scanned and sent to your email or mobile device
You can also request a Temporary Change of Address, which is a free service that allows you to forward mail for a limited time (up to 12 months). This service is available online or by phone.
It's worth noting that some private companies, like Mail Forwarding Services, may offer similar services for a fee. However, the USPS is the official government agency responsible for mail forwarding in the United States.
Before setting up mail forwarding, make sure to update your address with the USPS, your bank, credit card company, and other relevant institutions to ensure a smooth transition.