The accuracy of the address affects the speed and handling of your mail.

Return Address
Print or type your address in the upper left corner on the front of the envelope.

Extra Services
Place labels for extra services above the delivery address and to the right of the return address, or to the left of the postage.

Postage
Use stamps, a postage meter, or a PC Postage system to affix the correct amount. You can calculate postage online at pe.usps.com.

Recipient Name

Name of Organization

Street Address
Use 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 Number
The correct apartment or suite number helps to ensure delivery to the right location.

City, State, and ZIP Code
To find the correct spelling of a city name or to find a ZIP Code, visit www.usps.com 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/shop for items sent using either of these services. You must use the USPS-produced address label for Express Mail.

Online Shipping Labels
Express Mail and Priority Mail postage prices are lower when you pay for and print your postage online using Click-N-Ship. Delivery Confirmation is provided free for all domestic Priority Mail sent with Click-N-Ship postage. Most international postage may be purchased online for Global Express Guaranteed, Express Mail International, and Priority Mail International. You will save on International shipments when printing and paying for postage using Click-N-Ship. You can arrange for free Carrier Pickup online. Learn more about Click-N-Ship at www.usps.com.

Addressing
Placement
Print the delivery and return addresses on the same side of your envelope or card. The addresses should be written parallel to the longest side.

Legible
Type or print 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 Address
A return address is required on most mail.

Express Mail®
For Express Mail, you must use a USPS-produced address label provided by the Post Office.

Military Mail
Military 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, FPO or DPO, and the state with AA, AE, or AP, and use a special ZIP Code.

Abbreviations
A list of commonly used state, street, and other abbreviations is available online.