Certified mail is a service from the USPS that provides tracking throughout transit, delivery confirmation, and other security features when mailing important documents that require proof of delivery.
Certified mail is recommended for mailing valuable documents like legal papers, contracts, tax notices, insurance claims, and any mail where you need evidence it arrived.
Certified mail has a fee starting at $3.75 on top of regular USPS postage rates. Extra services like return receipt or insurance can cost more.
The process includes: purchasing a certified mail form at the post office, filling it out, attaching the barcode to your package, paying any fees, then tracking delivery status online.
When mailing your certified mail, you will receive a tracking number. Enter this on the USPS website to follow your package's progress and receive alerts about any delays.
With certified mail, you receive a mailing receipt as legal proof it was sent. The recipient's signature is also captured on delivery to prove the mail item arrived.
If you need more security, delivery confirmation, and the legal certifications certified mail provides, it is the best option over priority mail.
Tips include: double checking addresses, following USPS rules, getting signature confirmation if required, and using text/email tracking for updates.
