How to Send Snail Mail to the President

Snail mail is much slower to send and receive compared to electronic mail.

Snail mail is a traditional method of communication involving sending packages or letters through a mail carrier. When sending snail mail to the president, the White House states letters and postcards are acceptable, unlike packages and gifts. The president is a busy person, but staff is assigned to reading the mail. Write the president and you will almost always receive a personalized letter and stamp-signed photograph from the president. Sending snail mail to the president is a wonderful way to encourage school children to learn more about government and the political system.

Things You'll Need

• Pen and paper, and computer with a printer, if available
• Envelope
• First class stamp
• Address to the White House

Instructions

1. Decide what message you want to send to the president. Send the president a letter in the mail concerning your personal political interests or social issues, or send a simple postcard including a short message. Write down your thoughts on a piece of paper as a rough draft. Edit your letter carefully and then transfer your final letter with pen on paper or on a word processor. Follow the template on your word processor for a formal letter if using a computer, and then print out your final document.

2. Write a formal letter, in respect to the president. Start with your address on the left side of the paper, if writing a formal letter by hand. Add the date, written with the month spelled out, beneath your address with a space between the two. Skip a space and write "Dear Mr. President." Skip another line and start your first paragraph. Write out your letter, skip a line and write your complimentary close, such as "sincerely." Print your name and then sign it below the printed form.

3. Fold the sheet of paper containing the letter into thirds and insert into a standard size envelope. Seal the envelope securely.

4. Write the address, which is The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500, on the front of your envelope on three separate lines. Write your own mailing address in the upper left corner of the envelope. Affix the stamp on the upper right corner.

5. Place the letter in a U.S. postal box or deliver to your local post office.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your mail free from threat, without loose powders or hateful messages, as it is unlawful to threaten the president or any government worker.

• Do not send perishable items, such as flowers or food, to the president.

• Do not send any type of financial contribution, such as cash, bonds or checks.

• Do not send personal items, such as photographs, that can become damaged during the screening process.

References

• The White House: Contact the White House
• StudyEnglishToday.net: Parts of a Business Letter

Resources

• McClatchy: Americans Write Obama --- and Here's What Happens Next