Certified Mail Signatures

Getting Started

When sending Certified Mail through LetterStream, you have the option to add an Electronic Return Receipt (ERR), which provides you with a digital copy of the delivery signature. USPS typically requires a signature when delivering Certified Mail whether or not ERR is purchased. This article explains Certified Mail receipts, ERRs, signatures, tracking, and pricing.

In This Article

What Is a Certified Mail Receipt?

A Certified Mail Receipt (also known as PS Form 3800 or the green card) is a physical slip with a unique tracking number and barcode:

  • Serves as proof that a Certified Mail piece was sent.
  • Available at USPS locations or can be ordered online at USPS.com.

If you're using LetterStream, there's no need to visit the Post Office—everything is automated, and Certified Mail receipts are handled digitally within your account.

What Is an Electronic Return Receipt (ERR)?

An Electronic Return Receipt (ERR) is:

  • A digital record of the delivery signature provided by USPS after successful delivery of Certified Mail.
  • An official USPS product that serves as proof of delivery without the need for a physical green card.
  • Automatically stored and accessible in your LetterStream account indefinitely.

Key Benefits:

  • No waiting for mail to return.
  • Easy access and permanent digital storage.
  • Usually available within a few days of successful delivery.

If you're looking to access an ERR, click here for instructions.

Will the USPS Always Capture a Signature?

USPS requires a signature for Certified Mail delivery. However, actual carrier handling can vary, and there may be situations where USPS marks an item Delivered without successfully capturing a signature. If this occurs, an Electronic Return Receipt may not become available, even if ERR was purchased. This is outside of LetterStream's control.

USPS policy requires a signature for all Certified Mail deliveries:

  • Signature is captured by USPS whether or not you’ve paid for the ERR.
  • If you pay for the ERR, you’ll receive access to the electronic signature file in your account.
  • If you do not pay for the ERR, you won’t be able to access the signature file later—even though one was likely captured.

Additional Notes:

  • If delivery is unsuccessful, no signature will be provided.
  • PO Box deliveries still require a signature—recipients may sign at the front desk to receive the item.
  • USPS considers Certified Mail to be Accountable Mail, which requires a signature regardless of ERR purchase. Click here for more.

Pricing

An Electronic Return Receipt (ERR) is $2.91 per recipient.

ERR determines whether you receive a digital copy of the delivery signature. It does not determine whether USPS will request a signature when delivering the Certified Mail piece.

How to Choose Your Option:

  1. On the job setup screen, select:
    • Add Certified Mail service (Tracking) for tracking only (no signature).
  2. Or, on the final job approval page, select:
    • Remove Certified Return Receipt (no signature collected. Save $2.91/ea)

Why Does Tracking Show “Attempted” If I Didn’t Purchase ERR?

Certified Mail is considered Accountable Mail by USPS, which means carriers typically attempt to obtain a signature when delivering the letter.

Purchasing an Electronic Return Receipt (ERR) does not control whether USPS attempts to collect a signature. It only determines whether the sender will receive a digital copy of the signature after delivery.

Because of this:

  • USPS will usually attempt delivery and request a signature.
  • If no one is available, the carrier may leave a PS Form 3849 delivery notice.
  • The tracking status may appear as “Attempted.”
  • The recipient must then pick up the item at the post office or schedule redelivery.
  • If the item is not claimed within the USPS hold period, it may be returned to the sender.

Carrier practices may vary slightly depending on the local USPS office, so real-world handling may not always be identical.

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