Sending certified mail instructions
Here are the instructions for sending certified mail:
What is Certified Mail?
Certified Mail is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that provides proof of mailing and delivery. It is used to send important documents, such as legal documents, invoices, and packages, that require proof of delivery.
How to Send Certified Mail
To send certified mail, follow these steps:
- Prepare your mailpiece: Make sure your mailpiece is properly addressed and packaged. You can use a certified mail envelope or a regular envelope with a certified mail label.
- Obtain a certified mail label: You can purchase a certified mail label at a post office or online. The label will have a unique tracking number and a barcode.
- Affix the label: Attach the certified mail label to the outside of the envelope or package.
- Sign the receipt: The recipient must sign the receipt to acknowledge receipt of the mailpiece.
- Keep a copy: Keep a copy of the certified mail receipt for your records.
Types of Certified Mail
There are several types of certified mail services offered by the USPS:
- Certified Mail: This is the most common type of certified mail. It provides proof of mailing and delivery.
- Certified Mail Return Receipt: This type of certified mail provides proof of delivery and requires the recipient to sign a return receipt.
- Certified Mail Restricted Delivery: This type of certified mail requires the recipient to sign for the mailpiece and prohibits delivery to anyone other than the addressee.
- Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested: This type of certified mail provides proof of delivery and requires the recipient to sign a return receipt.
Fees
The fees for certified mail services vary depending on the type of service and the weight of the mailpiece. Here are the current fees for certified mail services:
- Certified Mail: $3.35 (first ounce), $0.20 (each additional ounce)
- Certified Mail Return Receipt: $5.35 (first ounce), $0.20 (each additional ounce)
- Certified Mail Restricted Delivery: $5.35 (first ounce), $0.20 (each additional ounce)
- Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested: $5.35 (first ounce), $0.20 (each additional ounce)
Tracking and Proof of Delivery
Certified mail services provide tracking and proof of delivery. You can track the status of your certified mail piece online or by contacting the USPS. The recipient must sign the receipt to acknowledge receipt of the mailpiece, providing proof of delivery.
Tips and Reminders
- Make sure to use a certified mail label and affix it to the outside of the envelope or package.
- Keep a copy of the certified mail receipt for your records.
- Use certified mail for important documents that require proof of delivery.
- Consider using certified mail return receipt requested for documents that require a signed receipt from the recipient.
- Keep track of your certified mail pieces and their status to ensure timely delivery.