By following these basic guidelines, you can help ensure that your card or letter will reach its destination quickly and efficiently.
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Always use a return address - if the letter is undeliverable, it can be returned.
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Endorsements can be placed in one of four locations on the envelope. In this example the endorsement is placed below the return address).
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Name and/or "Attention:" line. Print or type delivery address clearly in center of envelope (Use 10, 12, 14 pts for best readability).
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First and foremost, the address should be clear and legible:
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Use all CAPS, spaces between words, no punctuation, and left justify the margin.
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The color contrast between the address and the mailpiece background must be kept at a reasonable degree. A brilliant colored background or reverse printing is not permitted for automation discounts.
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Always use applicable directionals in the address (e.g., "N" for north and "S" for south).
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Always use applicable abbreviated locators in address (e.g., APT, ST, AVE). This helps direct the mail efficiently.
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Always include applicable RM (Room), FL (Floor), STE (Suite), or APT (Apartment) # on same line as (and after) street address (preferred), or on the line above the street address, not below.
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Use two letter state abbreviations in address block.
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Use a ZIP+4® ZIP Code™ (if known) on last line following city and state. Otherwise, use the ZIP Code.
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This is the barcode area; if you do not have a program that calculates and prints the correct barcode, then leave this area blank.
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Postage is placed in upper right corner.
Are the return address and ZIP Code™ always needed?
If the sender's name is not included in the return address, another clear designation (apartment, suite, or room number) is required to ensure proper handling of ancillary services and/or return of the piece. ZIP Codes™ (5-digit or ZIP+4®) are required in the return address of all mail on which postage is paid with precanceled stamps or company permit imprint, and in the sender's return address on Periodicals mail when "Address Service Requested" is specified. Official mail (penalty mail) also requires a ZIP Code™ in the return address.
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Effective December 14, 2023, the Postal Service is no longer accepting items that are shipped domestically and have a foreign return address. Domestic shipments can only have a domestic return address.
- If a domestic item is undeliverable, and includes a foreign return address, USPS will handle the mail in accordance with the current USPS dead mail procedures.
- A foreign address can only be used when shipping an item internationally, along with the appropriate customs form.
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A return address tells the USPS where the sender wants the mail returned if it is undeliverable and is required on certain types of mail. For letter mail prepared as upgradable mail, the return address must not be in the OCR read area. Mail qualifying for Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail™ prices must have the name and return address of the authorized nonprofit organization either on the outside of the mail piece or in a prominent location on the material being mailed.
For a list of items that that require return addresses, see the Domestic Mail Manual.
ZIP Codes™ are an integral part of making sure your mailpiece is processed quickly and efficiently. Not having a ZIP Code™ on your mail causes unnecessary delay because it will require manual look-up. Finding a ZIP Code™ is quick and easy from the USPS.com home page by clicking on "Quick Tools" and clicking "Look Up a ZIP Code™".
