8 tips to help prevent mail thefts

If you are experiencing delivery issues or theft of mail and packages, the United States Postal Inspection Service has some tips for you.

Sandrina Rodrigues

Jan 26, 2023, 9:30 AM

Updated 259 days ago

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8 tips to help prevent mail thefts
If you are experiencing delivery issues or theft of mail and packages, the United States Postal Inspection Service has some tips for you. 
Below are some steps you can take to prevent mail thefts:

1. Check your mailbox

Check your mailbox often and avoid leaving mail in your unsecure residential mailbox. 

2. Bring mail to post office

Bring sensitive outgoing mail to the post office rather than leaving mail in your residential mailbox for pick-up.

3. Consider a locking residential mailbox

There are many residential mailbox options that allow mail to be delivered, but require a key to retrieve the mail.

4. Don't send cash

Be careful about what you send. Don’t risk sending cash in the mail.

5. Report thefts

Report mail thefts to your local police department and to the USPS HERE

6. Request a vacation hold

Consider requesting a vacation hold for your mail even if you are only away for a few days. Here’s more information on how to file a request.

7. File a change of address

If you move, make sure you file a change of address with the Postal Service and let your financial institutions know as well.

8. Sign up for informed delivery

Waiting for mail? Sign up for informed delivery, that way you will know when sensitive mail will arrive. Click here for more information.