How to Return Mail to Addressee With the U.S. Postal Service

Returning mail to the correct recipient is easy.

Many people have experienced at least one occasion where they have checked the mail and found a piece of mail that does not belong to them. In some circumstances, it may make sense to give the mail to the correct person, like when you receive your neighbor's mail in your mail box. Mail that shows your address on the label but has the incorrect name should go back to the addressee.

Things You'll Need

• Incorrectly addressed mail
• Pen
• Mailbox

Instructions

1. Use a pen to cross off the incorrect street address.

2. Write the words "return to sender" on the outside of the envelope. Include a reason for the return. For example, if the person moved, write "moved -- return to sender" on the envelope.

3. Drop the envelope in a mailbox or take it to the local post office and turn it in to the postal clerk.

Tips & Warnings

• Many people choose a red pen to ensure what they have written stands out.

• Any return fees due will be charged to the sender of the item, not the person refusing delivery.

• Mail that does not belong to you must go back. It is a federal offense to tamper with mail.

• Clearly write the return address on mail you send, this will ensure that it comes back to you if returned for some reason.

• Do not open mail before refusing it, otherwise you must pay to send it back.

References

• United States Postal Service: 770 Undeliverable mail
• United States Postal Service: 508 Recipient Services