Addressing Your Mail

The accuracy of the address affects the speed and handling of your mail.
Return AddressPrint or type your address in the upper left corner on the front of the envelope.
Extra ServicesPlace labels for extra services above the delivery address and to the right of the return address, or to the left of the postage.
PostageUse a stamp, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. You can calculate postage rates online.
Street AddressUse a Post Office box or street address, but not both. If the address also has a directional (for instance, "NW " for Northwest), be sure to use it. There may be more than one Main Street.
Apartment or Suite NumberThe correct apartment or suite number helps to ensure delivery to the right location.
City, State, and ZIP CodeTo find the correct spelling of a city name or to find a ZIP Code, see the ZIP Code Lookup tool or call 1·800·ASK·USPS. Using the correct ZIP Code helps to direct your mail more efficiently and accurately.
Envelopes Letters, bills, greeting cards, and other documents can be sent in standard white, manila, or recycled paper envelopes. Items needing extra protection can be sent in bubble-lined, padded paper, or waterproof envelopes. These envelopes, along with stationery and prepaid First-Class Mail postcards and envelopes, can be purchased at the Post Office.
Express Mail and Priority Mail envelopes are available at your Post Office or visit www.usps.com for items sent using either of these services. You must use the USPS-provided address label for Express Mail.
Online Shipping Labels Click-N-Ship™ lets you print a shipping label—with or without postage—for Express Mail and Priority Mail service. Delivery Confirmation is provided for all domestic Priority Mail packages sent with Click-N-Ship postage at no additional cost. Most international postage may be purchased online for Global Express Guaranteed, Express Mail International, and Priority Mail International. You will receive a 10% online discount on Global Express Guaranteed, 8% on Express Mail International and 5% on Priority Mail International shipments when printing and paying for postage using Click-N-Ship! You can arrange for a pickup online or give your prepaid package to your letter carrier, drop it in a nearby blue collection box, or take it to the Post Office.
AddressingPlacementPrint the delivery and return addresses on the same side of your envelope or card. The addresses should be written parallel to the longest side.
Addressing LettersPrint or type clearly with a pen or permanent marker so the address is legible from an arm's length away. Do not use commas or periods.
Return AddressA return address is required on most mail.
Express Mail®For Express Mail, you must use the address labels provided by the Post Office.
Military MailMilitary addresses must show the full name with middle name or initial, and the PSC number, unit number, or ship name. Replace the city name with "APO " or "FPO," and the state with "AA," "AE," or "AP," and use a special ZIP Code.
AbbreviationsA list of commonly used state, street, and other abbreviations is available online.