Undelivered Letters (First-Class Mail)

Getting Started

This article explains what happens when a First-Class letter cannot be delivered by the USPS, how return mail is handled, and options for ensuring proof of delivery in the future.

In This Article

• Returned First-Class Mail
• Return Address Requirements
• Limitations of First-Class Mail
• Consider Certified Mail or FedEx

Returned First-Class Mail

If the USPS is unable to deliver a First-Class letter, it will typically be returned to the sender. This return process begins as soon as USPS identifies a delivery issue, such as an incorrect or incomplete address.

Return Address Requirements

To ensure undeliverable mail is returned to you:

• Make sure to include your complete and correct return address on the envelope.
• If your return address is valid, the letter will be routed back to you automatically by USPS.

Limitations of First-Class Mail

• No tracking: First-Class mail does not offer tracking or delivery confirmation.
• No proof of delivery: If the recipient claims the letter was not received, there's no way to verify delivery.
• No visibility: If you haven’t received a reply and the letter isn't returned, there's no way to determine what happened to it.

Consider Certified Mail or FedEx

To ensure visibility and confirmation for critical mailings:

• Certified Mail provides tracking and an optional signature upon delivery.
• FedEx offers advanced tracking and delivery confirmation, as well as faster delivery.

These alternatives are recommended when mailing sensitive or urgent documents.