Protect Your Mail

The mail you send and receive includes information that deserves special attention. For example, information on incoming statements and outgoing checks like account numbers and balances can be valuable to thieves. Here are some ideas to help keep your mail secure:

Sending Mail

• Never mail cash or coins. Use checks or money orders.
• Instead of placing outgoing mail in your mailbox with the flag up, drop mail into a post office-owned mailbox or hand it to your mail carrier.
• Use checks that are tamper-resistant and write checks in ink.

Receiving Mail

• Do not leave mail you receive in your mailbox for any longer than necessary. If you are going to be away for a short time, have a family member or trusted friend pick up your mail. If you are going to be gone for an extended period, have the post office hold your mail until you return.
• If you see suspicious individuals around your mailbox, contact the post office or the police.
• If you’re very concerned, investigate a lockable mailbox.
• Consider renting a post office box or a private mailbox at a shipping and delivery store.
• Sign up for direct deposit instead of receiving paper checks. This option is frequently available for paychecks and government-issued checks.
• If you are expecting a check or other piece of valuable mail and do not receive it, contact the sender. You can ask them to stop payment on a check if you think it has been stolen.
• If you believe your mail has been stolen, contact your postmaster.
• If you do not receive your mail all of a sudden, it is possible that someone filed a change of address using your name. Contact your post office to find out.
• If you move or change address, notify the post office and anyone that you do business with in advance.

For more on USPS services like post office boxes and changes of address visit their website at usps.com.