How to Properly Address a Letter's Envelope

Properly addressing a letter's envelope ensures a letter can reach its destination or be returned to sender in case of an error.

Although e-mail and social networking sites have largely replaced the traditional practice of letter writing, many people still employ the more tactile process of sending and receiving personal or business letters in the mail. When sending a letter in the mail, it is crucial to address the letter's envelope according to United States Postal Service standards in order to ensure that outgoing mail either reaches its intended destination or can be promptly returned to the sender in case of an error.

Instructions

1. Write the sender's name in the upper left hand corner of the envelope.

2. Write the sender's street address on the line directly under the sender's name. Include any other helpful information like apartment, office or P.O. box number to ensure the letter can be returned to a specific mailbox. The sender's name, street name and information, city and state and zip code receive their own lines. Do not use commas or periods. For example:

   Margaret Avery

   1234 Love St #202

   Lansing, Michigan 34567-3453

3. Write the recipient's address in the center of the envelope using the same style described in the previous steps. The recipient's address is typically written in larger print than the sender's address.

4. Place the proper postage in the upper right hand corner of the envelope.

Tips & Warnings

• Use pen when addressing the envelope to avoid accidental erasures that could result in mailing delays or losses.

• Using the ZIP+4 can speed up delivery of domestic mail.

References

• United States Postal Service: Addressing Tips & Tools