Certified Mail Being Returned But Not Attempted

Getting Started

This article explains why Certified Mail may be rerouted to the sender's address instead of being delivered to the intended recipient. It outlines common causes and how to determine the reason once the letter is returned to you.


In This Article


Why Certified Mail Is Rerouted

Certified Mail may be redirected to the sender’s address due to:

  • Incorrect or incomplete recipient address
  • Recipient unavailable to receive or pick up the letter
  • USPS processing errors that bypass the recipient address entirely

How to Identify the Cause

Once the letter is returned, examine it closely:

  • Yellow Return Label: Indicates the original address was undeliverable (e.g., moved, vacant, insufficient address, etc.).
  • USPS Barcode: If the barcode placed on the bottom of the envelope by the USPS matches your return address, USPS may have misprocessed the mail piece.

If tracking shows that your Certified Mail is being returned:

  • Wait to receive the returned letter.
  • Inspect the envelope for USPS markings or labels to determine the reason.
  • Based on the findings, consider correcting the address and resending the letter.
  • Double-check the recipient address through the USPS website or by contacting the recipient directly.

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