How long can us post office hold mail
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has specific guidelines for holding mail, and the length of time they can hold it varies depending on the circumstances. Here are some general guidelines:
- Standard Hold: The USPS can hold mail for up to 30 days without additional postage or fees. This is the standard hold period, and it's usually used for temporary absences or when a customer is away on vacation.
- Extended Hold: If you need to hold your mail for a longer period, you can request an extended hold. The USPS can hold your mail for up to 60 days with additional postage and fees. You'll need to pay the applicable postage and fees, which vary depending on the type of mail and the length of the hold.
- Vacation Hold: If you're going to be away for an extended period (usually 30 days or more), you can request a vacation hold. The USPS will hold your mail for up to 30 days without additional postage or fees. After 30 days, you'll need to pay the applicable postage and fees for an extended hold.
- Special Handling: If you have a specific request, such as holding mail for a family member or friend, the USPS may be able to accommodate it. In these cases, the hold period may vary, and you'll need to discuss the details with your local post office.
To request a hold on your mail, you can:
- Visit your local post office and speak with a postal employee.
- Complete a Hold Mail Request form (PS Form 3914) and submit it to your local post office.
- Contact the USPS Customer Service number (1-800-275-8777) and request a hold on your mail.
Remember to provide your name, address, and the dates you'd like the hold to begin and end. The USPS will then hold your mail until you return or until the hold period expires.