
Losing your postal box key can be frustrating, but replacing it is a relatively straightforward process.
You'll need to contact your local post office to initiate the replacement process, which can be done in person or by calling their customer service number.
The post office will require you to provide identification to prove you're the rightful owner of the postal box.
You can replace your lost postal key at any post office location, but it's best to visit the one that serves your postal box.
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What to Do If You Lose Your Key
If you lose your key, don't panic! You can replace it with the help of your local post office.
The cost of replacing a lost key varies depending on your situation. If you have a community or cluster mailbox, you'll need to contact the post office that oversees your mailbox to request a replacement key and pay a fee.
You'll need to fill out a form and provide photo identification, and you may need to pay a deposit fee. This process can take some time, so be sure to keep an eye on your mail and check for a Delivery Notice Card.
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If you have a Post Office Box (PO Box), you'll need to fill out USPS Form 1094 to request another copy of your key. This is a free service, but you'll need to provide proof of ownership.
If you live in a home with a locked mailbox and you've lost the key, you have two options: hire a professional locksmith or contact the manufacturer. A locksmith can create new keys for your home box, but this can be expensive. The manufacturer may request proof of ownership and charge a small fee, but it should be able to deliver a new key to your house within 3 to 5 days.
Here's a summary of the steps you can take to replace a lost key:
- Contact the post office that oversees your mailbox or fill out USPS Form 1094 if you have a PO Box.
- Fill out a form and provide photo identification, and pay any required fees.
- Wait for a Delivery Notice Card or for the new key to arrive from the manufacturer.
Remember to keep your mail on a temporary hold while you sort out the key issue, so you won't be stressed about your mailbox filling up.
Getting a Duplicate Key

Getting a duplicate key is a relatively straightforward process, and you can get it done in a few different ways. You can pay a locksmith to make a copy of your key, which can cost around the same as getting a replacement key from the USPS.
If you have a private mailbox, you may want to consider getting a duplicate set of keys from the service provider. This can give you an extra layer of security in case you lose your original keys. You can also duplicate the backup set of keys you've been given from the private mailbox service.
The cost of getting a duplicate key varies depending on local regulations, but it's generally around $10. You'll also need to pay a fee for replacing the key, which is also around $10.
If you're having trouble getting a duplicate key or the replacement key doesn't work, you may need to request a lock replacement from your local post office. This can cost around $20, and you'll need to provide photo identification and pay a deposit fee.
Here are some key facts to keep in mind when getting a duplicate key:
USPS Key Replacement Process

If you've lost your postal box key, the first step is to inform the building management immediately. This is especially true if you're a tenant.
The process for replacing a lost USPS key involves contacting the local post office. They'll provide a replacement key for a fee, which is approximately $20.
To get a new lock for your mailbox, you'll need to pay the USPS lock replacement fee. This fee is around $20.
If the replacement key and duplicate key don't work, you'll need to contact the USPS and request a new lock. They'll leave a Delivery Notice Card at your doorstep.
You'll need to bring the notice card when collecting the new replacement keys. Be prepared to pay a deposit fee and provide photo identification.
Here's a step-by-step guide to requesting a new lock from your local post office:
- Contact the United States Postal Service (USPS) and tell them your situation.
- Once the post office changes the existing lock, they will leave a Delivery Notice Card at your doorstep.
- Bring the notice card when collecting the new replacement keys. You may need to pay a deposit fee and give photo identification.
Consequences and Costs
Losing your mailbox key can mess up your mail routine. You'll have to pay for a new key from the Postal Service.

The cost to replace a lost USPS mailbox key varies depending on your situation. For community mailboxes, the cost is set by your landlord or Homeowner's Association, while for PO Boxes, it's around $10, including the refundable key deposit and key fee.
Hiring a locksmith to replace your mailbox key can be expensive, costing $100 or more, depending on your location and the type of mailbox you have.
What Are the Consequences of Losing My?
Losing your mailbox key can be a real hassle, but it's not the end of the world. You'll have to pay for a new key from the Postal Service, which can be a small fee, depending on your situation.
If you're living in a community setting, the cost to replace your mailbox key is set by your landlord or Homeowner's Association. You may be asked to call or email to report the loss, and in most cases, you'll need to fill out a form requesting a replacement key and pay a fee.

The cost of replacing a mailbox key varies depending on where you live and the type of mailbox you have. For those with a PO Box, the price of a replacement key is typically around $10, which includes the refundable key deposit and the key fee.
If you're unable to get a replacement key, you may need to hire a professional locksmith, which can cost $100 or more, depending on the time it takes to replace the lock and the parts required for the job. Alternatively, you can contact the manufacturer for a replacement key, which should cost around $10.
Here's a rough estimate of the costs involved:
- PO Box replacement key: $10
- Community mailbox replacement key: $20 or more
- Single-family mailbox replacement key: $10 (from manufacturer) or $100 or more (from locksmith)
It's worth noting that if you still have your PO Box keys, but they're damaged to the point of not working, the post office will give you a replacement for free.
What Does a Locksmith Charge for Lock Opening?
Locksmith costs can be a surprise, but understanding the basics can help. Locksmith costs vary, but mailbox opening typically ranges from $50 to $100 per hour for labor only.

If you're locked out of your home, you can expect to pay around the same rate, with some locksmiths charging even more for emergency services.
In some cases, the cost of lock opening may be included in the overall price of a lock installation or replacement, which can be a more affordable option in the long run.
The cost of lock opening can add up quickly, so it's essential to have a clear understanding of what you're getting into.
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Accessing Your Mail
If you've lost your PO Box key, don't worry, there's a solution. You can get help from the post office to access your PO Box mail.
You'll need to visit the post office in person to request assistance. They'll be able to help you access your mail without your key.
The post office is usually open during regular business hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a locksmith make a mailbox key without the original?
A locksmith can duplicate a standard residential mailbox key, but may not be able to replicate a commercial mailbox key without the original. The ease of duplication depends on the type of lock and key used.
Does the USPS have a master key for mailbox?
The USPS provides a master access lock for mail carriers to deliver mail, but it's not a master key for individual mailboxes. This lock allows secure access to mailboxes without the need for a master key.
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