How It Works

• Certified Mail is available only for items sent via first class or priority mail. It is not available for international mail. When you send something with Certified Mail, you receive a time-stamped receipt from the post office. Once the item is delivered, the recipient's signature is recorded indefinitely by the USPS. You can track the item's progress through the USPS delivery system and verify delivery online.
  
  

Proof of Delivery

• The most obvious benefit of Certified Mail is the proof of delivery it provides. This is important for many reasons, especially in legal matters. For instance, being able to confirm the receipt of divorce papers can be a crucial factor during a civil trial between former spouses, while confirmation that a signed contract was received can help an entrepreneur in a breach-of-contract business case.
  
  

Time-Sensitive Material

• Another common reason for using Certified Mail is to be able to demonstrate that time-sensitive materials were delivered by their deadline. Items such as tax returns, property tax payments, notices of payment due, and payments sent to debt collectors are well-suited for Certified Mail.
  
  

Restricted Delivery

• Certified Mail can be used in combination with other USPS services to further ensure that the material reaches its intended recipient. Adding the Restricted Delivery option ensures that only one, specified individual can sign for and receive the mailing. You'll pay an additional fee for this service. See the price list for USPS extra services in the Resources.
  
  

Return Receipt

• With the Return Receipt option, the recipient's signature is collected on a postcard that is then returned to you. This service, too, comes with an extra fee.