Usps forwarding mail how long
The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a forwarding service that allows you to receive mail and packages at a new address while keeping your old address active. The length of time you can use the forwarding service depends on the type of forwarding you choose and the reason for the change.
Permanent Forwarding
You can use the USPS's Permanent Forwarding service for up to 12 months. This service is ideal for people who are moving permanently to a new address and want to ensure that all their mail and packages are forwarded to their new location.
Temporary Forwarding
The USPS's Temporary Forwarding service is available for up to 90 days. This service is suitable for people who are moving temporarily, such as students on summer break or individuals on a short-term assignment.
Reasons for Forwarding
The USPS offers forwarding services for various reasons, including:
- Moving: Forwarding your mail and packages to a new address when you move.
- Vacation: Forwarding your mail and packages while you're away on vacation.
- Business: Forwarding mail and packages for a business that is relocating or temporarily closing.
- Military: Forwarding mail and packages for military personnel who are deployed or stationed at a new location.
How to Set Up Forwarding
To set up forwarding with the USPS, you'll need to:
- Go to the USPS website and fill out the Change of Address form (PS Form 3575).
- Provide your old and new addresses, as well as your name and other relevant information.
- Choose the type of forwarding service you need (Permanent or Temporary).
- Pay the forwarding fee (currently $1.05 for Permanent Forwarding and $0.65 for Temporary Forwarding).
- Submit the form and wait for the USPS to process your request.
Important Notes
- The USPS recommends setting up forwarding at least 3 weeks before your move to ensure that all your mail and packages are forwarded to your new address.
- You can only set up forwarding for yourself or your business. You cannot set up forwarding for someone else.
- The USPS will not forward mail or packages that are returned to sender due to an incorrect address or other issues.
- You can cancel your forwarding service at any time by submitting a new Change of Address form with the "Cancel" box checked.