How to Write a Letter to the President of the United States of America

Do you want to say something to the president? Do you want a letter back? Here are some guidelines for sending a courteous letter to the President of the United States of America. I have a letter from President George W. Bush that I received in response to a letter I wrote to him. It is one of my prized possessions.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer or typewriter
• Paper and Envelope
• Postage Stamps

1. Organize your thoughts:
   
   Take the time to jot down the general ideas that you want to convey in this letter. What is your subject? What are the facts? What is your opinion? Address only one topic in your letter. If you have additional topics, write an additional letter.

2. Type your letter in the appropriate format:
   
   Use the style of a business letter.
   Include the date, your full name and mailing address.
   The proper greeting is "Dear Mr. President".

3. Continue your letter in a respectful tone. Use proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling. You want your message to be understood, and taken seriously. Never, ever threaten or harass in your letter. It is ok to express your opinion such as saying that you are upset or angry about a situation. It is NEVER acceptable to use threatening or harassing language. Do not use profanity.

4. Proofreading:
   
   Have someone else read over your letter before you send it. They can often see small mistakes that you have overlooked.

5. Addressing and Mailing:
   
   Use the correct address:
   
   The White House
   1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
   Washington, DC 20500
   
   Use your correct mailing address if you hope to get a response.
   
   Use the appropriate postage:
   
   Use a first class letter rate stamp. How embarassing would it be for your letter to arrive "postage due"?

Tips & Warnings

• Be brief, concise, and courteous.
• Check your grammar, spelling, and tone.
• I do have a letter that I received from President George W. Bush that I got in response to a letter that I sent to him. Yes you CAN get a response, I cannot guarantee it though.
• It is unlawful to threaten the President of the United States in any manner.
• While you are entitled to your opinions, you are not entitled to be rude or threatening.

Resources

• White House

[kal30314]

on 10/21/2009 Great article, thanks you for sharing it with us on eHow.

[Mzcash]

on 10/8/2009 When I have something to say to him....bam he'll be getting a letter.

[skyedanzer]

on 6/5/2009 Great job! I never knew you really could write a letter to the President. Good to know

[sonni57]

on 3/20/2009 I didn't know this thanks for the good information.

[daldridge]

on 2/4/2009 dear mr president could yo please get back with me