What is the difference between certified and registered mail

In the United States, both certified and registered mail are types of mail services offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that provide proof of mailing and tracking. However, there are some key differences between the two:

Certified Mail:

1. Proof of mailing: Certified mail provides proof of mailing, which is a signed receipt from the recipient acknowledging receipt of the mailpiece.
2. Tracking: Certified mail is tracked, but only until it reaches the recipient's post office box or mailbox. After that, it's no longer tracked.
3. Return receipt: A return receipt is not included with certified mail, but it can be purchased separately.
4. Cost: Certified mail is generally less expensive than registered mail.

Registered Mail:

1. Proof of mailing: Like certified mail, registered mail provides proof of mailing, which is a signed receipt from the sender acknowledging that the mailpiece was mailed.
2. Tracking: Registered mail is tracked from the time it's mailed until it's delivered to the recipient.
3. Return receipt: A return receipt is included with registered mail, which is a signed receipt from the recipient acknowledging receipt of the mailpiece.
4. Cost: Registered mail is generally more expensive than certified mail.

In summary:

• Certified mail provides proof of mailing and tracking until it reaches the recipient's post office box or mailbox, but does not include a return receipt.
• Registered mail provides proof of mailing, tracking from mailing to delivery, and a return receipt, but is more expensive than certified mail.

When to use each:

• Use certified mail for situations where you need proof of mailing and tracking, but don't need to know exactly when the recipient received the mailpiece.
• Use registered mail for situations where you need to know exactly when the recipient received the mailpiece, such as for legal or business purposes.