Getting a P.O. Box is a great way to keep your mail safe and private.
It’s perfect for people who move around a lot or don’t want to use their home address for business.
To sign up for a P.O. Box, you can visit your local Post Office or do it online through the USPS website.
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The process is pretty simple.
You’ll need to fill out a form called PS Form 1093 and show two forms of ID.
One ID must have your photo on it.
If you’re signing up for a business, you’ll need to provide some extra info about your company.
Once you’ve completed the form and paid the fee, you’ll get your P.O. Box number and keys.
Then you can start using your new mailing address right away.
It’s a quick and easy way to manage your mail on your own terms.
Key Takeaways
- P.O. Boxes can be set up online or at a local Post Office
- You need two forms of ID and must complete PS Form 1093
- P.O. Boxes offer a secure and private way to receive mail
Getting Started With Your PO Box
Setting up a PO Box involves a few key steps.
You’ll need to pick the right size, choose a location, and set up payment.
Let’s look at the main things to know.
Understanding PO Box Services
PO Boxes offer a secure way to get mail.
They’re great for privacy and keeping work mail separate.
The USPS offers PO Boxes at many post offices.
To get started, you’ll need to fill out a PO Box application.
You can do this online or at a post office.
Make sure to have your ID ready.
PO Boxes come with some cool extras.
You might get 24/7 access or package pickup.
Some even offer street addressing.
Choosing the Right Box Size
PO Boxes come in different sizes.
Pick one that fits your needs.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Extra Small: For letters and magazines
- Small: Fits some small packages
- Medium: Good for most personal use
- Large: Holds many packages
- Extra Large: Best for businesses
Think about how much mail you get.
Don’t forget to plan for packages if you shop online a lot.
Exploring Payment Options
USPS offers flexible payment plans for PO Boxes.
You can pay for 3, 6, or 12 months at a time.
Online payments are easy through your USPS.com account.
You can set up auto-renewal to avoid late fees.
There’s usually a key deposit when you first sign up.
This is refundable when you return the key.
Keep an eye on your online payment history.
It helps you track expenses and plan for renewals.
Remember, prices vary by location and box size.
Bigger cities often have higher rates.
Completing the Sign-Up Process
Getting a PO Box is pretty easy.
You just need to fill out a form, show some ID, and pick your box.
Then you’re all set to start getting mail at your new address.
Filling Out the PS Form 1093
To get a PO Box, you’ll need to fill out PS Form 1093.
This form asks for basic info like your name, address, and phone number.
You’ll also need to pick how long you want to rent the box for.
Options are usually 3, 6, or 12 months.
Don’t forget to list anyone else who might pick up mail from the box.
This could be family members or employees if it’s for a business.
Verifying Identification and Lease
When you apply for a PO Box, you need to prove who you are.
The post office wants to make sure you’re really you!
Bring two forms of ID.
One should have your photo, like a driver’s license.
The other could be a credit card or utility bill.
If you’re renting, bring a copy of your lease.
This shows where you live.
Homeowners can bring a mortgage statement instead.
Reserving Your PO Box Online or In Person
You can set up a PO Box online or visit your local post office.
Online is often quicker.
To reserve online:
- Go to the USPS website
- Pick your post office location
- Choose your box size
- Pay for your rental
In person, you’ll fill out the form and pay at the counter.
The staff can answer any questions you have.
Managing Your PO Box After Sign-Up
Once you have your PO Box, there’s still stuff to do.
First, set up a change of address with USPS.
This makes sure your mail goes to the right place.
Sign up for Informed Delivery.
It’s a free service that lets you see what mail is coming each day.
You can also add Caller Service.
This is handy if you get lots of mail.
The post office holds it for you to pick up at the counter.
Remember to renew your PO Box before it expires.
You can do this online or at the post office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting a PO Box involves some key details about costs, requirements, and the signup process.
Here are answers to common questions people have when setting up a PO Box.
What’s the lowdown on PO Box fees per month?
PO Box fees vary based on box size and location.
Prices start around $4-$10 per month for small boxes in rural areas.
Larger boxes or prime city locations can cost $20-$75 monthly.
The USPS website lets folks check exact prices for their area.
Does getting a PO Box for a whole year save me some bucks?
Yep, paying for a full year upfront usually gives a discount.
The savings differ, but it’s often 10-20% off compared to monthly payments.
It’s a smart move for long-term PO Box users who don’t mind the bigger upfront cost.
Can you scoop a PO Box without an existing address?
Nope, you need a physical address to get a PO Box.
The post office wants to know where to send any important notices about your box.
They also use it to verify your identity when you sign up.
What’s the drill for starting a PO Box with the USPS?
Folks can apply for a PO Box online or in person at their local post office.
The online process lets you pick a box size, pay, and fill out forms.
In-person signup means chatting with a postal worker who’ll help set everything up.
What documents do I gotta have to open a PO Box?
You’ll need two forms of ID.
One must have a photo, like a driver’s license or passport.
The other can be a non-photo ID like a utility bill or lease agreement.
Both need to show your name and current address.
Am I able to snag a PO Box at no cost?
Most people can’t get a free PO Box.
However, some folks might qualify for no-cost boxes.
This includes people who can’t get mail at home and those with certain disabilities.
You should chat with the local post office about these special cases.