What is return receipt certified mail

Return Receipt Certified Mail is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that provides proof of delivery and a record of the recipient's signature.

Here's how it works:

  1. When you send a letter or package using Return Receipt Certified Mail, the USPS will attach a special receipt to the outside of the envelope or package.
  2. The recipient signs the receipt to acknowledge receipt of the mail piece.
  3. The USPS will then return the signed receipt to you, the sender, via first-class mail.
  4. The receipt will include the recipient's signature, the date and time of delivery, and the delivery address.

The benefits of using Return Receipt Certified Mail include:

  1. Proof of delivery: The signed receipt provides proof that the mail piece was delivered to the intended recipient.
  2. Record of delivery: The receipt includes the date and time of delivery, which can be useful for tracking purposes.
  3. Reduced disputes: Return Receipt Certified Mail can help resolve disputes over whether a mail piece was delivered or not.
  4. Compliance with regulations: In some cases, Return Receipt Certified Mail may be required by law or regulation, such as when sending sensitive or confidential documents.

To use Return Receipt Certified Mail, you'll need to follow these steps:

  1. Go to a post office or online and purchase a Return Receipt Certified Mail label.
  2. Attach the label to the outside of the envelope or package.
  3. Fill out the return receipt card with the recipient's name and address.
  4. Give the mail piece to the USPS for delivery.

The cost of Return Receipt Certified Mail varies depending on the weight and size of the mail piece, as well as the distance it needs to travel. On average, the cost is around $3.45 for a letter-sized mail piece and $5.95 for a package.

It's worth noting that Return Receipt Certified Mail is not the same as Certified Mail, which only provides proof of delivery but does not require the recipient to sign for the mail piece.