How to prepare certified mail usps

To prepare certified mail with the USPS, follow these steps:

1. Determine the type of certified mail you need: The USPS offers two types of certified mail:
   • Certified Mail: This service provides proof of mailing and delivery.
   • Certified Mail Return Receipt: This service provides proof of mailing and delivery, as well as a return receipt signed by the recipient.
2. Prepare your mailpiece: Make sure your mailpiece is properly addressed and packaged.
3. Obtain a certified mail label: You can purchase certified mail labels at a post office or online from the USPS. You can also use a certified mail label that you have previously purchased.
4. Affix the certified mail label: Attach the certified mail label to the upper right corner of the mailpiece.
5. Sign the label: Sign your name across the label to authenticate the mailing.
6. Pay the fee: The cost of certified mail is $3.95 for up to 70 grams, with additional fees for heavier mailpieces.
7. Hand it over to the USPS: Take your certified mail to a post office or mail carrier and hand it over to them.
8. Keep a record: Keep a record of the certified mail, including the tracking number, date mailed, and recipient's information.

Additional steps for Certified Mail Return Receipt:

1. Check the box: Check the box on the certified mail label that indicates you want a return receipt.
2. Pay the additional fee: The fee for a return receipt is $2.75.
3. Include a return receipt request: Include a request for a return receipt on the certified mail label.
4. The recipient signs the return receipt: The recipient signs the return receipt and returns it to you.

Tips and Reminders:

• Make sure to keep a copy of the certified mail label and any return receipts for your records.
• Certified mail is not trackable online, but you can contact the USPS to track the status of your mailpiece.
• If you need to send a large or heavy package, you may need to use a different type of mail service, such as Priority Mail.
• Certified mail is not available for international mail.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your mailpiece is properly prepared and sent using the USPS's certified mail service.