Going on vacation has many benefits, but one drawback is that your letters and other mail pile up in your mailbox at home.
To prevent that from happening, you can set up what’s called a “hold mail request” with your local post office. The best part about it? It’s free.
Going on Vacation? Here’s How To Set Up a Mail Hold
In this article, I’m going to show you how to set up a USPS hold mail request in three ways: over the phone, in person and online.
Quick Links: How To Request a Mail Hold
Hold mail requests can be activated for a minimum of three days and a maximum of 30 days. They must be set up at least one business day in advance before taking effect, according to the USPS website.
Another important thing to know is that once a hold mail request has been submitted, it applies to everyone at the mailbox address, regardless of their name.
Now, let’s go over three easy ways to make a mail hold request:
1. How To Place a Hold Mail Request Over the Phone
You can place a hold mail request via phone by calling 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777). As mentioned, any request must be submitted at least one business day in advance of the first day you want your mail held.
Tip: For quicker service, try calling the local phone number of the post office that handles your mail.
2. How To Make a Hold Mail Request at the Post Office
If you’re able to go inside your local post office, you can submit a mail hold request there as well. Again, it must be done at least one business day in advance.
You’ll be given PS Form 8076. Once you fill it out, make sure you get a confirmation number to verify that your request has been accepted.
3. How To Submit a Hold Mail Request Online
You can make a hold mail request online at the Postal Service’s Hold Mail Request page. Here are the steps to follow:
- Sign up for a free account at the Postal Service’s website and click on holdmail.usps.com/holdmail.
- Put in your address to see if mail-holding service is available in your area. If it is, you’ll need to verify your ID by using your phone number.
- Once your ID is confirmed, you can fill in the dates and submit your request.
Final Thoughts
No matter how you choose to submit your hold mail request, make sure that the days you’ll be away are firm. And keep in mind that the earliest you can request your mail to be held is 30 days in advance.
When you return from your trip, you can choose to stop by your local post office to pick up your packages or wait until the mail carrier resumes service to your home based on the date you selected on your hold request.
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