How to Apply for PO Box and Get Started Right Away

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Applying for a PO Box is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps. You'll need to choose a provider, such as the US Postal Service.

To start, you'll need to gather some basic information, including your name, address, and a valid form of identification. This will help the provider verify your identity.

Once you've chosen a provider and gathered the necessary information, you can submit your application online or in-person. Be sure to review the provider's specific requirements and fees before making a decision.

For another approach, see: What Do You Need to Set up a Po Box

Get a PO in 4 Steps

To get a PO Box, you'll need a secondary form of ID that verifies the address on your application. Acceptable forms of secondary ID can include a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address.

You can apply for a PO Box online or in person. To apply online, use the Postal Service online reservation system to search for nearby locations and select a preferred size.

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To apply in person, head to your preferred post office to complete a PO Box request form, or print the form and complete it at home to bring with you. You can pay for the box using cash, credit card, debit card, check, or money order.

Once you've applied, you'll need to complete the verification process, which may involve showing a secondary form of ID that reflects your address.

Take a look at this: Usps Po Box Application Form

Choosing a PO Box

Choosing a PO Box is an important step in setting up your mailbox. Consider the size of the box to fit your mail volume, and assess whether a small box for letters or a larger one for packages will suffice.

A conveniently located post office can save you time and effort, so evaluate the proximity of the post office to your business. This can make a big difference in your daily operations.

You'll want to evaluate the security and safety features offered by the post office to ensure your mail is protected. This is crucial for safeguarding your business's sensitive information.

Snow-dusted yellow mailbox mounted on a pink wooden wall, winter setting.
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Here are the standard PO Box sizes and costs as of February 2024:

Keep in mind that customers can only get one PO Box for free, so if you need another, you'll have to pay the standard monthly fee.

Applying in Person

Applying in person is a straightforward process. To start, visit your local post office and ask about PO Box availability.

You'll need to fill out PS Form 1093, which you can get from the post office or print from home. Bring the completed form with you to the post office.

To verify your identity, you'll need to present two forms of valid ID, including one photo ID. Acceptable primary forms of ID include a U.S. government ID, passport, or U.S. university ID.

Secondary forms of ID must verify the address provided on the P.O. Box application. Acceptable forms of secondary ID can include a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement.

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To complete the application, you'll need to pay the rental fee with cash, check, debit, or credit card. Once you've paid, you'll receive your PO Box number and keys or combination.

Here's a summary of the required documents and steps:

Choose a Size

Choosing a PO Box size is a crucial step in the process. You can choose from up to five sizes, ranging from extra small to extra large.

To determine the right size for you, consider your mail volume and the type of mail you'll be receiving. For example, if you only need to receive letters, a smaller size might be sufficient. If you need to receive packages, you'll want a larger size.

You can check with your local post office or the Postal Service's site to see what sizes are available. They'll be able to provide you with more information on the different sizes and what they're best suited for.

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Here are the standard PO Box sizes provided by USPS:

Remember to assess your mail volume carefully to determine the appropriate size for your needs.

PO Box Options

A post office box (PO Box) is a secure, numbered box located at a post office where your mail is kept until you collect it. This option is ideal for businesses that need a reliable place to receive mail but don’t want to use their personal address.

You can choose from up to five PO Box sizes, ranging from extra small to extra large.

Here are the standard PO Box sizes:

Some people may be eligible for a free PO Box, also called a Group E PO Box, but they must meet specific requirements to qualify.

Standard Sizes

When choosing a PO Box, you'll want to consider the size you need. USPS offers five standard PO Box sizes to fit your needs.

You can choose from a variety of sizes, each with its own unique dimensions. The smallest size is the Extra Small, which measures 3 inches x 5.5 inches.

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If you need a bit more space, you can opt for the Small size, which is 5 inches x 5.5 inches. This size is great for receiving smaller packages or mail.

The Medium size is a popular choice, measuring 5.5 inches x 11 inches. This size is perfect for receiving standard-sized envelopes and packages.

For larger packages, you'll want to consider the Large size, which is 11 inches x 11 inches. This size is great for receiving bigger packages and mail.

The Extra Large size is the largest standard size available, measuring 12 inches x 22.5 inches. This size is perfect for receiving large packages and mail.

Here are the standard PO Box sizes offered by USPS:

Free Purchase Order

You can get a P.O. Box for free if you meet specific requirements, but you'll need to check the Postal Service's rules and regulations.

Only a few people qualify for a free P.O. Box, which is also known as a Group E P.O. Box.

Free Boxes

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You might be eligible for a free PO Box if you live at a residential address that USPS doesn't serve.

To qualify for a free PO Box, you'll need to meet certain hardship criteria, which you can learn more about by visiting your local post office and inquiring about Group E box eligibility.

USPS doesn't allow people to apply for free PO Boxes online, so you'll need to stop by your nearest post office and request to apply in person.

Here are the steps to apply for a free PO Box in person:

  1. Fill out the 1093 application form
  2. Bring 2 different types of ID, such as a driver's license and birth certificate

PO Box Requirements

To apply for a PO box, you'll need to meet some basic requirements.

The applicant must be at least 18 years old to apply for a PO box.

You'll also need to provide a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport, to verify your identity.

Required Documentation

To finalize your PO Box rental, you'll need a completed PS Form 1093. This form is a must-have to complete the process.

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You'll also need two valid forms of ID to show. This can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I've got you covered.

To verify your address, secondary forms of ID must match the address on your PO Box application. Acceptable forms of secondary ID include a driver's license, government-issued photo ID, passport, permanent resident card, tribal identification card, or uniformed service ID card.

Here are the acceptable forms of ID you can use:

  • Driver’s license
  • Other form of government-issued photo ID
  • Passport
  • Permanent resident card
  • Tribal identification card
  • Uniformed service ID card

Just remember to have these documents ready, and you'll be all set to rent your PO Box!

Mail Forwarding Setup

To set up mail forwarding to your new PO Box, you'll need to file a change of address form with USPS and list your PO Box as the new address. This is a straightforward process that can be completed online or in person at your local post office.

First, you'll need to file a change of address form with USPS. This form is available on the USPS website or at your local post office. You can also update your address online through the USPS website.

Take a look at this: Delivery to Local Post Office

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Next, update your address with important contacts and service providers, such as banks, credit card companies, and online retailers. This will ensure that you receive any important documents or communications at your new PO Box address.

Consider using USPS Informed Delivery to digitally preview your incoming mail. This service allows you to view a digital version of your mail and manage your packages online.

PO Box Costs and Services

You can get premium PO Box services that offer 24/7 access to your box.

These services also come with email or text notifications when you receive mail, which can be super convenient.

Some premium services even include a signature on file for certain package deliveries, which can help prevent lost packages.

The cost of a PO Box varies depending on the size of the box you want, your location, and how long you need the box.

You can also get street addressing, which allows you to use the post office’s street address with your box number.

Here are some premium PO Box services you might be interested in:

  • 24/7 access to your box
  • Email or text notifications when you receive mail
  • Signature on file for certain package deliveries
  • Street addressing, which allows you to use the post office’s street address with your box number

Premium Services

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If you're looking for a more convenient and secure way to use a PO Box, you might want to consider premium services.

With premium PO Box services, you can enjoy 24/7 access to your box, which is perfect for those who need to collect mail at odd hours.

You'll also receive email or text notifications when you receive mail, so you can stay on top of your correspondence.

Some premium services even offer a signature on file for certain package deliveries, providing an extra layer of security.

Here are some key features of premium PO Box services:

  • 24/7 access to your box
  • Email or text notifications when you receive mail
  • Signature on file for certain package deliveries
  • Street addressing, which allows you to use the post office’s street address with your box number

Free UK Offer

If you're looking for a free PO Box in the UK, there is an option available.

UK PostBox offers a free PO Box based in Dorset, so you can access your mail from anywhere.

To get a free PO Box in the UK, you can use UK PostBox, which provides digital services to help you access and read your mail remotely.

Costs and Fees

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The cost of a PO Box varies depending on the size of the box you want, your location, and how long you need the box. This means you'll need to consider these factors when deciding on a PO Box that fits your needs.

The size of the box is a key factor in determining the cost. Larger boxes are typically more expensive than smaller ones.

Your location also plays a role in the cost of a PO Box. Prices can vary significantly depending on where you're located.

For example, if you need a PO Box for a short period of time, you'll likely pay less than if you need it for an extended period.

Special Considerations

You may need to get a PO Box in a different way if you're a business owner, as you may have to get a PO Box in a different state or even country.

If you're a business owner, you may need to research the specific requirements for getting a PO Box in your industry or location, as some may have unique regulations or restrictions.

Some businesses may also need to get a PO Box in a different way if they have a high volume of mail or packages, as they may require a larger or more secure mailbox.

Special Considerations

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You may have to get a PO Box in a different way if any of the variables below apply to you. If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to sign for you.

If you're homeless or have a non-traditional address, you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your identity and address. This can be a challenge, but it's not impossible.

Using After Move

When you've moved to a new location, it's essential to update your PO Box to receive all your mail. You can start managing your mail by setting up your PO Box and following the steps below.

You'll need to follow the steps outlined in the "Using Your PO Box After Moving" section to ensure you receive all your mail at your new PO Box.

Once you've set up your PO Box, you can start using it to receive mail at your new address. Just make sure to follow the steps to ensure you don't miss any important mail.

By following these steps, you'll be able to stay on top of your mail and receive all your important documents and packages at your new PO Box.

Waitlists

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If you're placed on a waitlist for a PO Box, it's because the size you want is unavailable at the location you selected.

You'll get a call or email from the post office to claim your new PO Box once one becomes available.

If you applied online, you'll receive an email with a two-day window to pay rental fees.

You'll also have a 30-day window to show up in person with your ID and PS Form 1093 to claim your PO Box.

Business PO Box

A PO Box can be a great option for businesses that need a secure and reliable place to receive mail. It's a numbered box located at a post office where your mail is kept until you collect it.

Using a PO Box as a business address can be a good choice, but it's essential to note that it may not be accepted as a physical address for certain business registration needs. Some banks and government agencies require a physical street address.

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A PO Box can be used as a business address, but make sure to follow the provider's rules and regulations. This ensures that your business mail is handled efficiently and securely.

You can use a PO Box as a business address, but consider the level of security and safety features offered. This is especially important if you're handling sensitive business documents.

To set up your PO Box, once USPS has approved your application, you can complete the steps below:

  1. File a change of address form with USPS. List your PO Box as the new address.
  2. Update your address with important contacts and service providers.
  3. Consider using USPS Informed Delivery to digitally preview your incoming mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get a PO Box for free?

To get a free PO box, apply in person with identification to a Postal Service employee. No-fee PO box service is available for customers without carrier delivery.

Is it difficult to get a PO Box?

Getting a PO Box is easy and convenient, requiring only a small monthly fee and a visit to a post office or other PO Box provider. Simply pay the fee and receive a key and PO Box number to start receiving packages securely.

What forms of ID do you need for a PO Box?

To rent a PO Box, you'll need a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or state ID, or a recognized corporate ID. Acceptable IDs include military, government, university, or corporate identification cards.

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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