Postal mail hold request
A "Postal Mail Hold Request" is a service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that allows you to temporarily suspend mail delivery to your address. Here's how it works:
Why would you want to request a mail hold?
You might want to request a mail hold for several reasons:
- Vacation or travel: If you're going to be away from your home for an extended period, you can request a mail hold to prevent mail from accumulating and potentially being stolen or damaged.
- Moving: If you're moving to a new address, you can request a mail hold to ensure that your mail is not delivered to your old address.
- Security: If you're concerned about mail theft or identity theft, you can request a mail hold to prevent mail from being delivered to your address.
How to request a mail hold:
To request a mail hold, you can:
- Online: Visit the USPS website (www.usps.com) and click on "Hold Mail" under the "Mail & Shipping" tab. Fill out the online form with your name, address, and the dates you want the hold to start and end.
- Phone: Call the USPS customer service number (1-800-275-8777) and speak with a representative to request a mail hold.
- In person: Visit your local post office and speak with a postal worker to request a mail hold.
What happens when you request a mail hold:
When you request a mail hold, the USPS will:
- Suspend mail delivery: The USPS will stop delivering mail to your address for the specified period.
- Hold your mail: The USPS will hold your mail at the post office for the specified period.
- Return undeliverable mail: If you have undeliverable mail (e.g., packages, bills, or catalogs), the USPS will return them to the sender.
Important notes:
- You can request a mail hold for up to 30 days.
- You can request a mail hold for multiple addresses.
- If you have a PO box, you can request a mail hold for that address as well.
- If you have a package delivery, you may need to make special arrangements with the sender to hold the package at the post office.
Remember to request a mail hold well in advance of your desired hold period to ensure that your mail is not delivered to your address during that time.