Lets start with what a certified letter actually is because the USPS has a bunch of different service levels so lets make sure this is the right one for you.
A certified letter is a type of mailing service offered by the USPS that provides proof of mailing and delivery, thats it. The cost of a certified letter can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and weight of the letter, the delivery speed, and any additional services you may want to add. If you want to know more you can also see more info on how to write a certified letter.
Thatch can send certified letters with a single upload. Just upload your PDF or word doc to thatch and we will print and mail your letter for you. This is great if you are sending certified mail a lot and dont want to fill out that little green form and go to the post office. Try it out now to save tons of time and make your life easy. If you dont know how, check out how to mail a letter online for a complete guide.
The Cost of a Certified Letter
The most basic service is just a standard letter in an envlope. For a standard certified letter, the cost starts at $5.80 for the first ounce and $0.15 for each additional ounce. For example, if you are mailing a two-ounce certified letter, the cost would be $6.10. Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on your location.
Other Delivery Options through the USPS
If you want your certified letter to be delivered more quickly, you can choose from a variety of expedited delivery options, such as Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail. These options will cost more than a standard certified letter, but they will ensure that your letter arrives at its destination in a timely manner.
Why to Send Certified Letters
One of the key benefits of sending a certified letter is the added security it provides. When you send a certified letter, you will receive a mailing receipt, a delivery receipt, and a return receipt. If you want to get someone attention and make sure they read your message this is the way to do it. The receipts from the USPS will provide proof that your letter was mailed, delivered, and received by the intended recipient.
Additional Services: Insurance
In addition to the basic cost of sending a certified letter, you may also be charged additional fees for any additional services you choose to add. For example, you can add insurance to your letter for added protection against loss or damage during shipping. The cost of insurance will depend on the value of the contents of the letter and the level of protection you require. Usually, you can skip this unless you are mailing something in the letter with a known value.
Additional Services: Signature Confirmation
Another popular add-on service for certified letters is signature confirmation. This service will provide you with a signature from the recipient when the letter is delivered, offering even greater security and proof of delivery. The cost of signature confirmation starts at $2.90 for standard delivery and may be higher for expedited delivery options. This may cause delays in your mail as they post office worker needs to keep returning to the location to get a signature, but it does add extra assurance that you had your letter seen.
Is The Cost of a Certified Letter Worth It?
The cost of a certified letter with USPS varies on a bunch of factors we've listed below. While it may be more expensive than regular first-class mail, a certified letter is perfect for specific situations in mailing like when you send an important document, legal matters, or important bills that need to be paid (or are not being paid).
