How To Open A Post Office Box

Quick answer

• Visit your local Post Office or use the USPS website to find available PO Boxes.
• Gather required identification, such as a government-issued photo ID and a second form of ID.
• Complete the application form (PS Form 1500) accurately and legibly.
• Pay the applicable rental fee and any deposit required for the mailbox.
• Receive your mailbox key and combination (if applicable) after your application is approved.
• Understand the USPS policies for PO Box usage and mail forwarding.

Who this is for

• Individuals who need a secure and private mailing address.
• Small business owners who want to separate business and personal mail.
• People who travel frequently and need a reliable place for mail to be held.

What to check first (before you act)

Your mailing needs and timeline

Before you commit to a PO Box, consider what you’ll use it for and for how long. Will it be for a temporary project, a permanent business address, or a secure place for personal mail? Understanding your needs will help you choose the right size box and rental duration.

Current mail handling

How do you receive mail now? If you’re relying on a home address that’s not always secure or convenient, a PO Box offers a clear alternative. Think about the volume of mail you receive and if your current method is sufficient.

Your identification documents

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has strict identification requirements. You’ll need to present valid, unexpired identification. This typically includes a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) and a secondary form of identification (such as a utility bill or voter registration card). Check the USPS website for the most current list of acceptable documents.

Your budget for fees

There are fees associated with renting a PO Box. These include an annual rental fee and potentially a deposit for the mailbox key. The cost varies depending on the size of the box and the Post Office location. Be prepared to pay these fees upfront.

Step-by-step (how to open a PO Box)

1. Locate a Post Office with PO Boxes:

• What to do: Visit your local Post Office or use the USPS website to find Post Offices that offer PO Box rentals. Not all locations have them available.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve identified a Post Office with available PO Boxes that suits your needs.
• Common mistake: Assuming all Post Offices have PO Boxes.
• How to avoid: Call ahead or check the USPS website to confirm availability before visiting.

2. Determine Box Size and Rental Period:

• What to do: Assess the typical size of the mail and packages you receive. PO Boxes come in various sizes. Choose a rental period (e.g., 3, 6, or 12 months).
• What “good” looks like: You’ve selected a box size that accommodates your mail volume and a rental term that fits your needs.
• Common mistake: Renting a box that’s too small for incoming mail or packages.
• How to avoid: Overestimate your needs slightly, or ask postal staff for recommendations based on common box sizes.

3. Obtain and Complete PS Form 1500:

• What to do: Get the official “Application for Post Office Box” (PS Form 1500) from the Post Office or download it from the USPS website. Fill it out completely and accurately.
• What “good” looks like: The form is filled out legibly with all required information, including your name, address, and contact details.
• Common mistake: Incomplete or illegible form submission.
• How to avoid: Read each field carefully and use clear handwriting or type the information.

4. Present Required Identification:

• What to do: Bring two forms of valid, unexpired identification to the Post Office. One must be a government-issued photo ID, and the other a secondary ID.
• What “good” looks like: You have the correct identification documents ready for verification.
• Common mistake: Bringing expired or unacceptable forms of ID.
• How to avoid: Review the USPS list of acceptable IDs beforehand and ensure yours meet the criteria.

5. Pay Rental Fees and Deposit:

• What to do: Pay the annual rental fee for your chosen box size and duration, plus any required deposit for the key.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve paid the necessary fees and received a receipt.
• Common mistake: Not having enough funds to cover the fees and deposit.
• How to avoid: Confirm the exact cost with the Post Office before your visit.

6. Receive Your PO Box Key and Access Information:

• What to do: Once your application is approved, you will be issued a key to your PO Box. If it’s a combination lock box, you’ll receive your combination.
• What “good” looks like: You have physical possession of your key or know your combination.
• Common mistake: Losing the key or forgetting the combination immediately.
• How to avoid: Store your key in a safe place and write down your combination in a secure, private manner if necessary.

7. Understand PO Box Usage Policies:

• What to do: Familiarize yourself with the USPS rules for PO Box use, including what can and cannot be mailed to a PO Box, and how to handle packages.
• What “good” looks like: You understand the limitations and guidelines for using your PO Box.
• Common mistake: Violating USPS policies, which could lead to penalties or cancellation.
• How to avoid: Read the official USPS PO Box guidelines or ask postal employees for clarification.

8. Start Receiving Mail:

• What to do: Provide your new PO Box address to senders. Inform important contacts (banks, employers, government agencies) of your updated address.
• What “good” looks like: Your mail is now being delivered to your PO Box.
• Common mistake: Forgetting to update your address with critical institutions.
• How to avoid: Create a comprehensive list of everyone who needs your new address and systematically update them.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Using an unacceptable ID	Application denial, delays in getting your PO Box.	Check the USPS website for the most current list of acceptable forms of identification before you go to the Post Office.
Not checking box availability	Wasted trip to the Post Office, frustration.	Call your local Post Office or visit the USPS website to confirm PO Box availability and reserve a box if possible before visiting in person.
Incomplete or inaccurate application form	Application rejection or significant delays, potential for incorrect address setup.	Fill out PS Form 1500 carefully and completely. Double-check all information before submitting it.
Renting a box that’s too small	Mail overflow, packages returned to sender, missed important documents.	Choose a larger box size than you think you need, especially if you anticipate receiving packages or have a high volume of mail.
Not understanding package delivery rules	Packages being returned, confusion about where to pick up larger items.	Clarify with postal staff how packages addressed to your PO Box will be handled (e.g., held at counter, require a separate notice).
Failing to update your address everywhere	Mail going to your old address, missed bills, important notifications, potential identity theft.	Create a checklist of all senders (banks, subscriptions, government agencies, employers) and update your address with each one systematically.
Losing your PO Box key	Inconvenience, potential security risk, cost of re-keying the lock.	Keep your key in a secure, memorable place. If lost, report it immediately to the Post Office for a re-keying process, which may incur a fee.
Using the PO Box for prohibited items	Violation of USPS regulations, potential for mail to be withheld or returned, possible account closure.	Review the USPS guidelines on what can and cannot be mailed to a PO Box. Avoid using it for illegal activities or mail fraud.
Not renewing your PO Box on time	Loss of your PO Box number, mail being returned or forwarded (if you have forwarding set up), potential loss of access.	Note your renewal date and set reminders. Renew well in advance of the expiration date to ensure continuous service.
Assuming your PO Box is a secure mailbox	Mail theft or tampering if the box is not properly secured or if the Post Office facility has security issues.	While PO Boxes are generally secure, be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity at the Post Office.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If you need a private and secure mailing address separate from your home, then rent a PO Box because it offers discretion and protection from mail theft.
• If you travel frequently for extended periods, then rent a PO Box because it prevents mail from piling up at your home and reduces the risk of missed important documents.
• If your business requires a professional mailing address, then rent a PO Box because it can enhance your business’s credibility and separate personal from business correspondence.
• If you are concerned about mail theft at your residential address, then rent a PO Box because it provides a more secure location for your mail to be held.
• If you are moving and need a temporary mailing address until you settle, then rent a PO Box because it ensures you receive mail reliably during the transition.
• If you receive a large volume of mail and packages, then rent a PO Box with sufficient size to avoid overflow and returned mail.
• If you are unable to provide the required identification, then you cannot rent a PO Box because USPS has strict verification policies.
• If you need to receive packages that require a signature, then check with the Post Office about their specific PO Box package handling procedures, as not all PO Boxes are designed for this.
• If you want to avoid the cost and hassle of mail forwarding from your old address, then rent a PO Box and update your address directly with senders.
• If you are considering a PO Box for a business, then ensure the chosen address aligns with any local zoning or business registration requirements.
• If you are unsure about the box size needed, then consult with a postal clerk for recommendations to avoid issues with mail overflow.

FAQ

What is a Post Office Box?

A Post Office Box is a locked mailbox located within a Post Office facility that you can rent to receive your mail. It provides a secure and private alternative to a home delivery address.

How much does a PO Box cost?

The cost varies based on the box size and the Post Office location. There is an annual rental fee, and sometimes a deposit for the key. Check with your local Post Office or the USPS website for current pricing.

Can I receive packages at a PO Box?

Yes, you can receive packages. However, if a package is too large to fit in your PO Box, it will typically be held at the Post Office counter for pickup, and you may receive a notification.

What identification do I need to open a PO Box?

You will need two forms of valid, unexpired identification. One must be a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport), and the second can be another form of ID like a utility bill or voter registration card. Always check the USPS website for the most up-to-date requirements.

Can I use a PO Box as my permanent address for everything?

For most purposes, yes. However, some entities, like certain government agencies or financial institutions, may have specific requirements or prefer a physical street address. It’s best to confirm with them directly.

What happens if I lose my PO Box key?

If you lose your key, you must report it to the Post Office immediately. They will likely re-key the lock, and there may be a fee associated with this service.

How long can I rent a PO Box?

PO Boxes are typically rented on a 3, 6, or 12-month basis. You can renew your rental agreement as long as the box remains available.

Can I have mail forwarded to my PO Box?

Yes, you can set up mail forwarding from another address to your PO Box, or from your PO Box to another address if you move. There may be specific forms and fees associated with mail forwarding.

What if my PO Box is full?

If your PO Box is full, mail and packages that don’t fit will be held at the Post Office counter. You’ll typically receive a notification slip to pick them up.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific pricing and availability of PO Boxes in your area. (Next: Visit your local Post Office or the USPS website.)
• International mail forwarding services. (Next: Research international shipping and postal services.)
• Business mail solutions beyond a standard PO Box, such as commercial mail receiving agencies (CMRAs). (Next: Explore services offered by private mailbox companies.)
• Legal requirements for using a PO Box for specific business registrations or official government correspondence. (Next: Consult with legal counsel or relevant government agencies.)
• Detailed information on mail fraud and how to report it. (Next: Contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.)