Mailing address format on envelope
The standard format for a mailing address on an envelope in the United States is as follows:
Recipient's Name Street Address or PO Box City, State ZIP Code
Here's a breakdown of each line:
- Recipient's Name: The name of the person or organization receiving the mail.
- Street Address or PO Box: The physical address or post office box number of the recipient. If the recipient has a street address, include the house number, street name, and any additional information such as apartment or suite numbers. If the recipient has a PO box, include the PO box number only.
- City, State ZIP Code: The city, state, and ZIP code of the recipient's address. The city and state are usually separated by a comma, and the ZIP code is usually separated from the city and state by a space.
Here's an example of a properly formatted mailing address:
John Doe 123 Main Street, Apt 101 Anytown, CA 12345
Some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Use the correct ZIP code for the recipient's location. You can use the USPS ZIP Code Lookup tool to find the correct ZIP code.
- Use the correct state abbreviation. For example, California is abbreviated as "CA", not "California".
- Use a clear and legible handwriting style. If you're using a printer, make sure the font is large enough to be easily readable.
- Double-check the address for accuracy before mailing. A single mistake can cause the mail to be delayed or returned to sender.
It's also a good idea to include a return address on the envelope, which is usually located in the top left corner. This should include your own name and address, in case the mail needs to be returned to you.