How long can you temporarily forward mail
The length of time you can temporarily forward mail depends on the postal service and the specific forwarding service you use. Here are some general guidelines:
USPS (United States Postal Service)
- The USPS offers a temporary forwarding service called "Forward Mail" that allows you to forward mail to a new address for up to 12 months.
- You can request a temporary forwarding service online or at a local post office.
- The fee for temporary forwarding is $1.05 per month, with a minimum fee of $1.05 and a maximum fee of $12.60.
Private Mail Forwarding Services
- Private mail forwarding services, such as Mail Forwarding Services or EarthClassMail, typically offer temporary forwarding services for a shorter period of time, usually up to 6 months.
- These services often have a monthly fee, which can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the service and the volume of mail you need to forward.
- Some private mail forwarding services may offer longer-term forwarding options, but these may require a contract or a higher monthly fee.
Other Considerations
- When using a temporary forwarding service, it's essential to keep in mind that the service may not be able to forward all types of mail, such as packages or certified mail.
- You should also be aware that temporary forwarding services may not be able to forward mail to a PO box or a mailbox that is not physically located at the forwarding address.
- If you're planning to use a temporary forwarding service for an extended period, you may want to consider setting up a permanent forwarding address or using a mail scanning service, which can scan and email your mail to you.
In summary, the length of time you can temporarily forward mail depends on the postal service or private mail forwarding service you use. The USPS offers temporary forwarding for up to 12 months, while private services typically offer shorter-term forwarding options. Be sure to check the specific terms and conditions of the service you choose to ensure it meets your needs.