Mail Hold How-to Guide

A comprehensive guide on how to use USPS's Hold Mail service to manage your mail during your absence.

USPS Hold Mail service is a free service that allows you to put a hold on your mail, including letters and packages, for a specified period. Here's how to set it up:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

USPS Hold Mail service is available to residential addresses, business addresses, or PO Boxes™ in eligible ZIP Codes™. You must have a "uniquely coded" mailbox, and some apartment buildings or condos may not have uniquely coded addresses. Check to see if your address is eligible for Hold Mail service here.

Step 2: Submit a USPS Hold Mail Request

You can submit a USPS Hold Mail request online or in person.

Online:

Visit USPS Hold Mail Service to submit a request online. You will need to sign in to or create a USPS.com® account to begin an online USPS Hold Mail request.
You can enter an online USPS Hold Mail request up to 30 days before the start date or as early as the next scheduled delivery day.
Online USPS Hold Mail requests submitted before 2:00 A.M. Central Time can begin on the same Postal business day. Online USPS Hold Mail requests submitted after 2:00 A.M. Central Time can begin on the next Postal business day at the earliest.

In Person or In Writing:

Visit your local Post Office™ location and complete Form PS Form 8076, Authorization to USPS Hold Mail.
Requests made in person, in writing, or by calling 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) must be accepted by the closing of your local Post Office location or the Customer Care Center for the request to be completed by the next delivery schedule.

Step 3: Edit, Change, or Cancel a USPS Hold Mail Request

With a confirmation number, you can edit, change or cancel your hold mail request online or by calling the Customer Care Center. Without a confirmation number, you can only extend the USPS Hold Mail® request by visiting your local Post Office™ location and presenting one of the Acceptable Forms of Identification.

Step 4: Pick Up Your Mail

When your USPS Hold Mail request ends, you can pick up your mail at your local Post Office™ location, or your letter carrier can deliver your mail on the ending date you specify. If you pick up your mail earlier than the date supplied on the USPS Hold Mail request, the 'Hold' is automatically canceled, and regular mail delivery will resume on the next Postal business day.

Remember, the USPS is there to help manage your mail during your absence. If you have any issues or questions, please get in touch with the USPS for assistance.