Health and Healthcare

USPS Hold Mail is a free service that temporarily stops mail delivery to your primary address while you are away, securely storing letters and packages at your local post office[1][2].

What Is Hold Mail Service?

This service prevents mail theft by holding accumulated mail at the post office until you return, with a minimum hold of 3 days and a maximum of 30 days[1][2].

How to Request Hold Mail

You can submit a request online by visiting USPS.com and creating an account, or by calling 1-800-275-8777[1][2].

Alternatively, visit your local post office to complete PS Form 8076, Authorization to Hold Mail[1][4].

For online requests, set up the service at least 30 days before your start date, and submit before 2:00 a.m. Central Time to begin on the same postal day[1].

Important Considerations

Online service is not available at every address, so verify eligibility before submitting an online request[1].

If you are unable to hold mail due to address restrictions, you may consider using the Hold Mail service or renting a P.O. Box for secure mail handling[1][7].

USPS continues to improve delivery tracking and accountability systems following reports of mail delays[3].