How to Open a PO Box at the Post office

Opening a Post Office Box (PO Box) is a simple process that can be completed either online or in person at your local Post Office. Here's how you can do it:

1. Apply Online

  • Go to the USPS website and find the PO Box section.
  • Reserve a box at a Post Office near you and pay for it online.
  • Print your completed application.
  • Take your application and two forms of ID to the Post Office where your box is located to pick up your keys.

2. Apply In Person

  • Visit your local Post Office.
  • Complete Form PS Form 1093, Authorization to Hold Mail.
  • Submit the form along with two forms of ID.
  • Pay for your PO Box and receive your keys.

Benefits of a PO Box

  • Security: Your packages and mail are safe at the Post Office and can only be picked up by you or the people you specify.
  • Privacy: Keep your home address private and important documents confidential.
  • Flexibility: Get your mail on your schedule, with a range of PO Box sizes and rental terms of 3-, 6-, and 12 months.

PO Box Sizes

Most Post Offices offer five PO Box sizes, ranging from extra small (XS – Size 1) to extra large (XL – Size 5). Choose your PO Box size based on the type of mail (letter-sized mail or packages) and how much mail and packages you receive.

Payment Options

You have four different options for making a PO Box payment:

  • Online with a credit or debit card.
  • Pay at a self-service kiosk (SSK).
  • Pay by mail: Send a check or money order payable to "U.S. Postal Service" to the Postmaster where your PO Box is located.
  • Pay in person at the Post Office where your PO Box is located.

Renewal

There are four ways you can renew your PO Box:

  • Online with a credit or debit card.
  • At a self-service kiosk.
  • Renew by mail.
  • Visit the Post Office where your box is located.

Management

You can manage your PO Box online. This includes opening a new PO Box, adding an existing PO Box to your online account, adding or managing the credit card you use for payment, editing your User Profile, and viewing your online payment history.

Additional Services

Consider adding the Street Addressing service to your PO Box. This lets you use the street address of your Post Office location, combined with your PO Box number, as your mailing address. This lets you receive packages from private carriers such as UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Amazon.

Closing a PO Box

You can close a PO Box by going to Manage PO Box, signing in to your account, and clicking the Close/Request Refund link next to the box. You can also request a PO Box be closed by informing the retail associate at the Post Office where your box is located. Once a box is closed, be sure to submit a Change of Address (COA) form. Your mail can be forwarded to your new address for up to one year.

Remember, a PO Box is a secure, numbered box located at the Post Office where your mail is kept until you collect it. It's a great way to keep your mail safe and your home address private.

USPS PO Box FAQs

What is a PO Box?
A Post Office Box (PO Box) is a secure, numbered box located at a Post Office where your mail is kept until you collect it. It's a great way to keep your mail safe and your home address private.
How do I apply for a PO Box?
You can apply for a PO Box either online through the USPS website or in person at your local Post Office. You'll need to complete an application form and provide two forms of ID.
What are the benefits of a PO Box?
A PO Box offers security, privacy, and flexibility. Your mail and packages are safe at the Post Office and can only be picked up by you or people you specify. It also allows you to keep your home address private and pick up your mail on your schedule.
What sizes of PO Boxes are available?
Most Post Offices offer five PO Box sizes, ranging from extra small (XS – Size 1) to extra large (XL – Size 5). Choose your PO Box size based on the type of mail (letter-sized mail or packages) and how much mail and packages you receive.
How do I pay for a PO Box?
You can pay for your PO Box online with a credit or debit card, at a self-service kiosk, by mail with a check or money order, or in person at the Post Office where your PO Box is located.
How do I renew my PO Box?
You can renew your PO Box online with a credit or debit card, at a self-service kiosk, by mail, or in person at the Post Office where your PO Box is located.
Can I manage my PO Box online?
Yes, you can manage your PO Box online. This includes opening a new PO Box, adding an existing PO Box to your online account, adding or managing the credit card you use for payment, editing your User Profile, and viewing your online payment history.
How can I ensure packages get delivered to my PO Box if addressed to my house?
Consider adding the Street Addressing service to your PO Box. This lets you use the street address of your Post Office location, combined with your PO Box number, as your mailing address. This lets you receive packages from private carriers such as UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Amazon.
How do I close a PO Box?
You can close a PO Box by going to Manage PO Box, signing in to your account, and clicking the Close/Request Refund link next to the box. You can also request a PO Box be closed by informing the retail associate at the Post Office where your box is located. Once a box is closed, be sure to submit a Change of Address (COA) form. Your mail can be forwarded to your new address for up to one year.
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