How long does usps forward mail after address change

The United States Postal Service (USPS) typically holds mail for a certain period of time after an address change, but the exact duration can vary depending on the type of mail and the specific circumstances. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Forwarding Period: USPS typically holds mail for 15 days after an address change. During this time, they will forward mail to the new address. If you're moving within the same city or state, the forwarding period is usually shorter, typically 3-5 days.
  2. Forwarding Limit: USPS will forward mail for a maximum of 12 months (1 year) after the address change. If you're moving to a new address and want to receive mail at the old address for a longer period, you'll need to file a change of address request with USPS and pay a fee.
  3. Special Handling: For certain types of mail, such as packages, USPS may hold them for a longer period. For example, if you're moving and have a package being delivered, USPS may hold it for up to 30 days before returning it to the sender.
  4. Undeliverable Mail: If mail is undeliverable due to an incorrect address or other issues, USPS will return it to the sender. You can also request that USPS hold undeliverable mail for a certain period, usually up to 30 days, before returning it to the sender.
  5. Address Change Confirmation: To confirm your address change, USPS will send a confirmation letter to your new address. This letter will include a unique confirmation number, which you can use to track your mail forwarding status.

To ensure a smooth transition, it's a good idea to:

Remember, USPS will do their best to forward your mail, but it's always a good idea to double-check your mail forwarding status and update your address with relevant parties to avoid any issues.