Digital Rights and Privacy

Temporarily pause your mail with the free USPS Hold Mail service, which holds packages and letters for 3 to 30 days at your local post office [1][8].

How to Request a Hold

You can submit a request online, by phone, or in person. For the fastest results, visit the USPS Hold Mail website, sign in to your account, and enter your exact address to verify eligibility [1][2]. Select your start and end dates, then choose whether to have held mail delivered automatically or picked up at the post office [1].

If you prefer phone support, call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) at least one day before your desired start date [1][3]. To request in person, visit your local branch and ask for PS Form 8076, titled “Authorization to Hold Mail,” then fill it out with your name, address, and hold dates [1][2].

Key Details

The service is free for residential customers, and you must provide valid ID when picking up your mail [2]. Ensure you submit your request at least one business day in advance to guarantee timely processing [2]. If you lack a permanent address, consider USPS General Delivery, which also holds mail for roughly 30 days at participating post offices [4][7].