How to Address an Envelope Using Attn

Using the attention line correctly when addressing an envelope is more than good business writing etiquette. It helps guarantee that your mail is delivered to your intended recipient.

Instructions

1. Write the "attention" line first. This is written with the abbreviation ATTN. Note that there is no punctuation mark with the abbreviation. The attention line always precedes the name of the company.

   Example:

   ATTN JOE SMITH

2. Write the name of the company or organization where your recipient is located.

   Example:

   ATTN JOE SMITH

   ABC COMPANY INC.

3. Write the street address, including any suite numbers, on the next line.

   Example:

   ATTN JOE SMITH

   ABC COMPANY INC.

   123 MAIN STREET STE 789

4. The last line of the address should be the city, state and ZIP code.

   Example:

   ATTN JOE SMITH

   ABC COMPANY INC.

   123 MAIN STREET STE 789

   SMALL TOWN, DC 00000-0000

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Read this Article in UK English
• United States Postal Service: Postal Addressing Standards