How to send certified mail

Sending certified mail is a process that involves using a special type of mail service provided by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to ensure that your mail is delivered and proof of delivery is obtained. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to send certified mail:

What is Certified Mail?

Certified Mail is a type of mail service that provides proof of mailing and delivery. It's a secure and trackable way to send important documents, such as legal documents, invoices, and packages.

How to Send Certified Mail:

1. Prepare your mail: Make sure your mail is properly addressed and packaged. You can use a standard envelope or a package, but it must be properly sealed and prepared for mailing.
2. Go to a post office: Take your mail to a post office or a USPS retail location. You can't send certified mail from a mailbox or a post office box.
3. Ask for certified mail: Let the postal clerk know that you want to send certified mail. They will ask you for the recipient's name and address.
4. Fill out the form: The postal clerk will provide you with a Certified Mail form (PS Form 3800). Fill out the form with the recipient's name and address, as well as your return address.
5. Pay the fee: The cost of certified mail varies depending on the weight and size of your mail. The current fee for certified mail is $3.95 for up to 70 grams (about 1 ounce).
6. Get a tracking number: The postal clerk will give you a tracking number, which you can use to track the delivery status of your mail.
7. Sign the receipt: The postal clerk will ask you to sign a receipt to confirm that you have received the certified mail.
8. Mail the package: Once you have completed the certified mail process, the postal clerk will give you a certified mail receipt and a tracking number. You can then mail the package.

What Happens After You Send Certified Mail:

1. Tracking: The USPS will track the delivery of your certified mail and provide you with updates on its status.
2. Delivery: The certified mail will be delivered to the recipient, and they will be required to sign for it.
3. Proof of delivery: The USPS will provide you with proof of delivery, which includes the recipient's signature and the date and time of delivery.
4. Return receipt: If the recipient refuses to sign for the certified mail, it will be returned to you with a return receipt.

Tips and Reminders:

• Make sure to keep a copy of the certified mail receipt and the tracking number for your records.
• Certified mail is not insured, so if the package is lost or damaged, you may not be able to recover the value of the contents.
• You can use certified mail to send packages up to 70 pounds (about 32 kilograms).
• Certified mail is not available for international mail.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your mail is delivered securely and that you have proof of delivery.