Buzz
Dealing with mail from previous occupants can be a nuisance, but with proactive steps, you can put an end to it. Sometimes, informing the postal service is necessary if they are unaware of the issue. Taking action is key to stopping unwanted mail effectively.
Effective Strategies
Notifying the Postal Service
Marking 'Return to Sender' on the envelope's exterior (for first-class mail) and putting it in an outgoing mailbox can alert senders that the intended recipient no longer resides there. This prompts senders to update their records, reducing unwanted mail over time.
Utilize Sticky Notes to Manage Previous Resident's Mail
Place a sticky note inside your mailbox with a message like '(Previous Resident's Name) no longer resides here' to remind the postal carrier to check for and remove any mail for the previous occupant.
Respecting Mail Laws
Avoid Opening Others' Mail. Opening mail not addressed to you is a federal offense in the US. If accidentally opened, reseal it with a note indicating the addressee no longer lives there and return it to the mailbox to avoid obstructing mail delivery.
Handle First-Class Mail Responsibly. Disposing of someone else's first-class mail is considered mail theft and obstructs the intended delivery. Instead, return it to the mailbox to ensure proper delivery and update of address records.
Avoid Unauthorized Change-of-Address Requests. Refrain from submitting a change-of-address form for previous residents unless legally authorized. Contact USPS for guidance on handling previous-resident mail properly.
Managing Mail for Deceased Individuals
Utilize DMAchoice.org to Report Junk Mail. Visit the DMAchoice.org 'Deceased, Do Not Contact' page to stop bulk-rate mail for deceased individuals. It may take a few months for changes to apply.
Mark Mail as 'Deceased -- Return to Sender'. Inform the post office and senders of the deceased status by labeling mail accordingly and returning it to the mailbox.
Contact Senders Directly. Notify magazine, charity, or subscription service senders about the deceased status to stop receiving related mail. Alternatively, label items as 'Deceased -- Return to Sender' if direct contact is not preferred.
Helpful Tips
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If you receive mail addressed to a previous resident via Express Mail, contact 1-800-ASK-USPS for assistance. They will help expedite the recovery and forwarding of the mail.
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USPS cannot send notifications regarding mail you've requested to be returned to the sender.
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Continue returning misdelivered mail to the post office and remain patient. It may take some time for the incorrect mail deliveries to cease completely.
