How to stop your mail service while on vacation
A well-deserved break! Stopping your mail service while on vacation can help prevent accumulation of mail and potential identity theft. Here's how to do it:
USPS (United States Postal Service)
- Suspend Mail Delivery: Go to the USPS website (usps.com) and click on "Hold Mail" under the "Mail & Shipping" tab.
- Fill out the form: Complete the "Hold Mail" form with your name, address, and dates of suspension.
- Submit the form: Print and sign the form, then mail it to your local post office or drop it off in person.
- Alternative: You can also contact your local post office directly and ask to suspend mail delivery. They may require you to fill out a form or provide identification.
USPS Mobile App
If you have the USPS mobile app, you can also suspend mail delivery through the app. Just follow these steps:
- Open the app and log in to your account.
- Tap on "Hold Mail" under the "Mail" tab.
- Enter your name, address, and dates of suspension.
- Confirm your request.
Other Mail Services
If you use a private mail service, such as UPS or FedEx, you'll need to contact their customer service department to suspend delivery. Here's how:
- UPS: Call UPS Customer Service at 1-800-742-5877 or visit their website (ups.com) and click on "Hold Mail" under the "Shipping" tab.
- FedEx: Call FedEx Customer Service at 1-800-463-3339 or visit their website (fedex.com) and click on "Hold Mail" under the "Shipping" tab.
Tips
- Make sure to suspend mail delivery at least 3-5 business days before your trip to ensure your mail is held.
- If you have a PO box, you may need to contact the post office directly to suspend mail delivery.
- Consider asking a trusted neighbor or friend to collect your mail while you're away.
- If you're planning a long-term vacation, you may want to consider renting a post office box or using a mail forwarding service.
By following these steps, you'll be able to enjoy your vacation without worrying about accumulating mail or potential identity theft.