Should you mail cash

The age-old question: should you mail cash?

In general, it's not recommended to mail cash, especially for large or significant amounts. Here's why:

  1. Security risks: Cash is a tempting target for thieves, and mailing it can increase the risk of it being stolen or lost in transit.
  2. Lack of tracking: Once cash is mailed, it's difficult to track its movement or recover it if it's lost or stolen.
  3. No proof of delivery: When you mail cash, you can't be certain that it will arrive at its intended destination or that the recipient will receive it.
  4. No recourse: If the cash is lost or stolen, you may not be able to recover it or get a refund.

That being said, there may be situations where mailing cash is unavoidable, such as:

  1. Small, low-value transactions: If you're sending a small amount of cash to a friend or family member, it might be acceptable.
  2. Emergency situations: In cases of extreme urgency, such as a family emergency or a medical crisis, mailing cash might be the only option.

To minimize risks when mailing cash, consider the following:

  1. Use a secure envelope: Use a sturdy, tamper-evident envelope to prevent theft or tampering.
  2. Insure the package: Consider purchasing insurance to cover the value of the cash in case it's lost or stolen.
  3. Use a trackable shipping method: Choose a shipping method that provides tracking and confirmation of delivery, such as USPS Priority Mail or UPS.
  4. Keep a record: Keep a record of the transaction, including the amount, recipient's name and address, and any tracking information.

If possible, consider alternative methods for sending money, such as:

  1. Electronic transfers: Use online banking or mobile payment apps to transfer funds directly to the recipient's account.
  2. Money orders or cashier's checks: These are more secure and provide a paper trail.
  3. Prepaid debit cards: Load a prepaid debit card with the desired amount and send it to the recipient.

Remember, it's always a good idea to weigh the risks and benefits before mailing cash. If you do decide to mail cash, take steps to minimize the risks and ensure the security of the transaction.