Do you have to pay to forward mail

In the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) allows you to forward mail to a new address for a fee. The cost of forwarding mail depends on the type of mail and the length of time you want to forward it. Here are the general rates:

  1. First-Class Mail: $0.95 per piece (up to 70 pounds) for a 6-month forwarding period. You can forward mail for up to 12 months, but the cost increases:
    • 6-12 months: $1.90 per piece
    • 1-2 years: $3.80 per piece
  2. Priority Mail: $2.95 per piece (up to 70 pounds) for a 6-month forwarding period. You can forward mail for up to 12 months, but the cost increases:
    • 6-12 months: $5.90 per piece
    • 1-2 years: $11.80 per piece
  3. Package Services (e.g., Media Mail, Parcel Post): $2.95 per piece (up to 70 pounds) for a 6-month forwarding period. You can forward mail for up to 12 months, but the cost increases:
    • 6-12 months: $5.90 per piece
    • 1-2 years: $11.80 per piece

To forward mail, you'll need to:

  1. Fill out a Change of Address form (PS Form 3575) with your old and new addresses.
  2. Pay the forwarding fee at a post office or online.
  3. Submit the form and payment to the post office or online.

Keep in mind that you can also forward mail online through the USPS website, which may offer additional services and fees.

It's worth noting that some mail services, like UPS and FedEx, may have different forwarding policies and fees. If you're using one of these services, you should contact them directly for more information.