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How-to · Getting around

Pause all household mail with USPS Hold Mail

USPS Hold Mail pauses all mail for everyone at an eligible address for 3–30 days, free of charge.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Choose the datesChoose at least 3 and no more than 30 days. At least 3 days must separate the end of one hold and the start of another.
  2. Verify identity or apply at the Post OfficeThe online process requires an identity-verification attempt. If you cannot verify online, follow the prompts for a mailed code, or complete PS Form 8076 at your local Post Office.
  3. Choose delivery or pickupOn the last day USPS can deliver all held mail, or you can choose to collect it at your local Post Office. Hold Mail cannot hold just one package or selected mailpieces.
  • How-to

    Apply for a U.S. passport for a child under 16

    Getting around
    1. Prepare the applicationUse the official form filler, print on single-sided paper, and wait to sign until the acceptance agent instructs you.
    2. Gather citizenship and family documentationProvide evidence of the child’s U.S. citizenship and legal parent or guardian relationship, the adults’ physical photo IDs, and the child’s passport photo. Bring the original or replacement citizenship document with its seal or stamp, a photocopy of it, and photocopies of the front and back of the adults’ photo IDs.
    3. Apply at an acceptance facilityBring the child, application, documents and fees to an authorized acceptance facility. The agent checks ID, administers an oath and has you sign.
    U.S. Department of State
  • How-to

    Claim USPS insurance for a lost or damaged domestic package

    Getting around
    1. Check your service’s filing periodEach claim has a filing window. Use the domestic-claims filing-period table for the service used.
    2. Keep the packaging and contentsSave the original packaging and everything in the package until the claim is settled. Keep damaged items even after photographing them, and do not reship undamaged items.
    3. Use the online claim serviceFile online at USPS.com. If you cannot file online, start a claim by mail. Keep your evidence documents until the claim is resolved.
    U.S. Postal Service
  • How-to

    Enroll an international trip in STEP travel alerts

    Getting around
    1. Create an account or choose guest messagesSet up a free STEP account. A guest subscription is available for messages if you do not want to register for Login.gov.
    2. Register the tripWith Login.gov, sign into STEP and enter the location and duration of your upcoming visit.
    3. Update changes to the tripUpdate your STEP information when travel plans change.
    U.S. Department of State