How to extend mail forwarding beyond 6 months
The joys of mail forwarding!
By default, the United States Postal Service (USPS) allows mail forwarding for up to 6 months. However, you can extend this period in certain circumstances. Here are the steps to extend mail forwarding beyond 6 months:
Method 1: Online Extension
- Go to the USPS website (usps.com) and sign in to your account.
- Click on "Manage Your Account" and then "Mail Forwarding."
- Select the account you want to manage and click on "Edit."
- Scroll down to the "Mail Forwarding" section and click on "Extend Mail Forwarding."
- Choose the new end date for your mail forwarding service (up to 12 months).
- Review and confirm your changes.
Method 2: Phone or In-Person Extension
- Call the USPS Customer Service number at 1-800-275-8777 (1-800-ASK-USPS) and follow the prompts to speak with a representative.
- Explain that you want to extend your mail forwarding service beyond 6 months.
- Provide your account information and the new end date you'd like to set.
- The representative will assist you in extending your mail forwarding service.
Method 3: Visit a Post Office
- Visit your local post office and speak with a postal clerk.
- Explain that you want to extend your mail forwarding service beyond 6 months.
- Provide your account information and the new end date you'd like to set.
- The clerk will assist you in extending your mail forwarding service.
Additional Requirements
To extend mail forwarding beyond 6 months, you may need to provide additional information or documentation, such as:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
- A valid reason for extending mail forwarding (e.g., military deployment, international move)
Fees
There may be a fee associated with extending mail forwarding beyond 6 months. The fee is typically $1.00 per month, with a maximum fee of $12.00 per year.
Remember to keep your mail forwarding service active until you've received all your mail or until you've notified the USPS to stop forwarding your mail.