What happens if you send mail without a stamp
If you send mail without a stamp, it's considered "unpaid" or "unpostable" mail. Here's what typically happens:
- Post Office Rejection: When the mail is processed at the post office, it will be rejected and returned to the sender. The post office will usually mark the envelope with a "Return to Sender" or "Insufficient Postage" stamp.
- No Delivery: The mail will not be delivered to the intended recipient. It will be held at the post office until the sender claims it or pays the required postage.
- Additional Fees: If the sender wants to resend the mail, they may be charged additional fees for the postage and any other services required (e.g., certified mail, tracking).
- Penalties: In some cases, the sender may be subject to penalties or fines for sending mail without proper postage. This is more likely to happen if the mail is sent through a bulk mail or commercial mail service.
To avoid these issues, it's essential to affix the correct postage to your mail before sending it. You can use a postage meter or purchase stamps at a post office or online.
If you're unsure about the postage requirements for a specific item, you can:
- Check the USPS website for postage rates and guidelines
- Consult with a postal worker at a post office
- Use a postage calculator or online tool to determine the required postage
Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to postage!