What is Certified Mail?

Getting Started

Certified Mail is a USPS add-on service used with First-Class Mail that provides proof of mailing and basic tracking. It is commonly used when senders need to verify that a letter was sent and delivered.

In This Article

• What is Certified Mail?
• Proof of Mailing and Tracking
• Getting a Signature: Return Receipt Options
• When to Use Certified Mail

What is Certified Mail?

Certified Mail is not a standalone mailing service. It is an add-on that must be paired with First-Class Mail. This requires:

• The appropriate First-Class postage
• The additional Certified Mail fee

Once mailed, Certified Mail provides enhanced visibility and accountability over standard First-Class mailings.

Proof of Mailing and Tracking

Certified Mail provides:

• Proof of Mailing – Confirmation that your letter was sent
• Tracking Information – You can see the letter’s status within the USPS system, including confirmation of delivery

While USPS generally performs this service reliably, occasional delays or tracking gaps can occur.

Getting a Signature: Return Receipt Options

Certified Mail is considered Accountable Mail by USPS, which means the postal carrier will typically attempt to obtain a signature at delivery.

Adding Electronic Return Receipt (signature) does not control whether USPS attempts to collect a signature. Instead, it determines whether the sender receives a copy of the recipient’s signature as proof of delivery. If ERR is not included you cannot then retroactively request it from USPS, so if it's needed it's best to include it before sending your letters.

Types of signatures:

• Electronic Return Receipt (ERR) – A digital record of the recipient's signature

  (Offered by LetterStream)

• Paper Return Receipt (Green Card) – A physical signature card attached to the envelope

  (Not offered by LetterStream)

The ERR is a more streamlined and secure way to confirm delivery. For more information, click here.

When to Use Certified Mail

Use Certified Mail when:

• You need proof that a letter was mailed
• You need evidence of delivery for legal or contractual reasons
• Your contract or policy requires notice to be sent via Certified Mail

Note: Certified Mail does not guarantee that the recipient will sign for or accept the letter. It only proves that you sent it, which is often all that’s legally required.