How to certify mail something

Certifying mail is a process that provides proof of mailing and helps ensure that your mail is delivered to the intended recipient. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to certify mail:

Types of Certified Mail

There are two types of certified mail:

1. Certified Mail: This type of mail provides proof of mailing and delivery. The recipient must sign for the mail upon delivery.
2. Certified Mail Return Receipt: This type of mail provides proof of mailing and delivery, and also requires the recipient to sign and return a receipt to the sender.

How to Certify Mail

To certify mail, follow these steps:

1. Prepare your mail: Make sure your mail is properly addressed and packaged.
2. Go to a post office: Take your mail to a post office or a mailbox center.
3. Ask for certified mail: Inform the postal clerk that you want to certify your mail. They will provide you with a certified mail form (PS Form 3800).
4. Fill out the form: Fill out the certified mail form with the recipient's name and address, as well as your name and address.
5. Pay the fee: Pay the certified mail fee, which is currently $3.95 for certified mail and $4.35 for certified mail return receipt.
6. Attach the label: Attach the certified mail label to your mail.
7. Get a tracking number: The postal clerk will provide you with a tracking number, which you can use to track the status of your mail.
8. Keep a copy: Keep a copy of the certified mail form and the tracking number for your records.

Tips and Reminders

• Make sure to use the correct postage and address the mail correctly.
• Keep a record of the certified mail form and the tracking number.
• If you're sending certified mail internationally, you may need to use a different form and pay additional fees.
• Certified mail is not insured, so if the mail is lost or damaged, you may not be able to recover the value of the contents.

Online Options

You can also certify mail online through the United States Postal Service (USPS) website. Here's how:

1. Go to the USPS website (www.usps.com).
2. Click on "Ship" and then "Certified Mail".
3. Fill out the online form with the recipient's name and address, as well as your name and address.
4. Pay the certified mail fee online.
5. Print the certified mail label and attach it to your mail.

Remember to keep a record of the certified mail form and the tracking number, even if you certify your mail online.