Holding mail request
A "holding mail" request is a service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows you to temporarily hold your mail at a post office or mail facility while you're away from your home or business. Here's how it works:
Why would you want to hold your mail?
There are several reasons why you might want to hold your mail:
- Vacation or travel: If you're going to be away from your home or business for an extended period, you can hold your mail to prevent it from accumulating and potentially being stolen or damaged.
- Moving: If you're moving to a new home or apartment, you can hold your mail at your old address until you're settled in at your new location.
- Construction or renovation: If you're having work done on your home or business, you might not want to receive mail while the construction is underway.
- Security concerns: If you're concerned about mail theft or identity theft, holding your mail can help prevent unauthorized access to your mail.
How to request a holding mail service
To request a holding mail service, you'll need to visit your local post office or mail facility and complete a "Hold Mail" request form. You can also request this service online through the USPS website.
Here are the steps:
- Gather your information: You'll need to provide your name, address, and the dates you'd like to hold your mail.
- Visit your local post office: Take the completed form to your local post office or mail facility.
- Provide identification: You may need to provide identification, such as a driver's license or passport, to verify your identity.
- Pay the fee: There is a small fee for holding your mail, which varies depending on the location and the length of time you'd like to hold your mail.
What happens to your held mail
Once you've requested a holding mail service, your mail will be held at the post office or mail facility for the specified period. You can then pick up your mail at your convenience.
Tips and reminders
- Be sure to request a holding mail service well in advance of your departure or move to ensure that your mail is held properly.
- If you're holding your mail for an extended period, you may want to consider setting up mail forwarding to your new address.
- If you're holding your mail due to construction or renovation, be sure to notify your neighbors and any delivery personnel to avoid confusion.