How to mail a letter certified

To mail a letter certified, you'll need to follow these steps:

1. Prepare your letter: Make sure your letter is properly addressed and sealed in an envelope.
2. Choose the correct postage: You'll need to affix the correct postage for the weight and size of your letter. For certified mail, you'll need to use a special postage stamp or a postage meter that indicates "Certified Mail" or "Return Receipt Requested."
3. Take your letter to a post office: You can't mail certified letters at home. You'll need to take your letter to a post office or a mailbox that accepts certified mail.
4. Ask the postal clerk for certified mail: When you get to the post office, let the clerk know that you'd like to mail your letter certified. They'll ask you to sign a receipt and provide your return address.
5. Fill out the certified mail form: The postal clerk will give you a form to fill out, which includes the recipient's address, your return address, and a tracking number. Make sure to fill out the form accurately and completely.
6. Pay the fee: The fee for certified mail is currently $3.95 for up to 70 grams (about 1 ounce). You can pay with cash, credit card, or debit card.
7. Get a receipt: Once you've paid the fee, the postal clerk will give you a receipt that includes the tracking number and a unique barcode. Keep this receipt, as it will serve as proof of mailing.
8. Mail your letter: The postal clerk will then take your letter and attach a certified mail label to the envelope. They'll also give you a copy of the certified mail form, which you should keep for your records.

What happens next:

• The postal service will attempt to deliver your letter to the recipient.
• If the recipient signs for the letter, they'll receive a copy of the signed receipt.
• If the recipient doesn't sign for the letter, it will be returned to the post office and held for pickup or delivery to the recipient's address.

Tips and reminders:

• Make sure to use the correct postage and fill out the certified mail form accurately to avoid delays or errors.
• Keep a copy of the certified mail form and receipt for your records.
• If you need to track the status of your certified mail, you can use the tracking number on the receipt to check the USPS website or mobile app.
• Certified mail is not available for international mail. For international mail, you can use a similar service called "Priority Mail International Return Receipt Requested."