Signing up for Informed Delivery helps you stay on top of critical mail before it arrives. This USPS service digitizes your first-class mail so you can preview, track, and act on important documents with confidence.
Below is a structured overview of core details, eligibility, and what to expect when you enroll.
| Feature | Details | Benefit | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Type | Digital preview of first-class mail | See images of envelopes and key pages | Opt in via USPS.com |
| Mail Coverage | First-class letters, flats, and parcels | Reduce missed bills and identity theft risk | Ensure accurate delivery address |
| Image Availability | Grayscale images for 7 days | Review at your convenience online | Check inbox regularly for notifications |
| Delivery Options | Standard or Hold for Pickup | Choose how you receive physical mail | Update preferences in your profile |
Eligibility And Requirements
Before you sign up, confirm that your location and address qualify for Informed Delivery. Not all delivery routes support digital previews.
Address Eligibility
Your street address must be serviced by an eligible USPS facility and allow residential delivery verification. P.O. boxes and some private addresses are not eligible.
Account And Security
You need a free USPS account with verified identity. Strong passwords and two-factor authentication improve security and prevent unauthorized changes.
How To Sign Up
Enrolling is straightforward and can be completed directly on the USPS website. Following a few clear steps reduces errors and speeds up activation.
- Visit the official Informed Delivery page on USPS.com.
- Log in or create a verified USPS account.
- Enter your delivery address and confirm eligibility.
- Review privacy settings and agree to terms.
- Submit and start receiving digital previews.
What You Can Preview
Informed Delivery provides grayscale images that help you identify the sender and approximate content without opening the mailpiece. This preview supports timely decision-making.
Types Of Mail Shown
You will see images of first-class letters, flats, and packages that pass through automated processing. Standard delivery timelines apply to physical arrival.
Image Limitations
Only the external view is captured, and details such as handwriting inside are not included. Images remain available for seven calendar days from delivery date.
Managing Preferences
Customizing how you receive notifications and where mail is handled improves convenience and control over your mail flow.
Notification Settings
Choose email alerts or mobile notifications so you do not miss incoming mail previews. Adjust frequency to match your daily routine.
Delivery Decisions
You can request Hold for Pickup, redirect mail, or schedule redelivery. Updating these settings in advance prevents missed or delayed items.
Optimizing Your Mail Experience
Using Informed Delivery effectively saves time, reduces missed mail, and strengthens oversight of sensitive documents arriving at your home.
- Verify your delivery address for accuracy before enrolling.
- Enable two-factor authentication on your USPS account.
- Check image previews promptly to act on time-sensitive items.
- Adjust notification settings to match your preferred devices.
- Update delivery preferences if you plan travel or temporary changes.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I know if my address is eligible for Informed Delivery?
Enter your address on the USPS Informed Delivery eligibility page; if your route supports it, you will see an option to create an account and enroll.
What should I do if I do not receive the email preview for a bill?
Check your spam folder, verify that your mailpiece was scanned, and confirm that your Informed Delivery notification preferences are enabled for that sender.
Can I still receive physical mail if I sign up for Informed Delivery?
Yes, signing up does not change delivery; you continue to receive physical mail based on your selected delivery option and address status.
Is my personal information safe when I create a USPS account?
USPS uses encryption and secure authentication; protect your account with strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever available.