Understanding the 'Address Service Requested' Notation on Envelopes and Its Implications

The term 'Address Service Requested' is a notification used by postal services to indicate that the sender desires to be notified if the recipient has moved or if the address is incorrect. This service aims to ensure that mail reaches its intended recipient even if the recipient has changed their address.

Notification Mechanism and Charges

If the recipient has changed their address, the postal service will forward the mail to the new address and notify the sender of the change. The sender will be charged a fee for receiving such notifications. Additionally, if the address is undeliverable, the sender will receive a notice that the mail could not be delivered. This service is particularly useful in ensuring that important documents and correspondence reach the intended recipients.

Implications for Recipients

When a sender includes 'Address Service Requested' on an envelope, it means they want to know if the recipient has moved to a new address. This notification can be provided by various entities, including utility companies, credit card companies, bill collectors, skip tracers, and more. These organizations might use this service to track down individuals who have moved and left a forwarding address. It is crucial for recipients to ensure their current mailing addresses are up-to-date to avoid such disruptions.

Using 'Address Service Requested' for Personal Purposes

Individuals can also use the 'Address Service Requested' endorsement to track their own mail. Landlords and other entities frequently use this service to locate past tenants and obtain their new mailing addresses. Even stalkers have been known to use this service, highlighting its wide application.

However, if someone wishes to avoid being found, they should not submit a USPS (United States Postal Service) Change of Address (COA) form. Instead, they should be extremely diligent in updating their address with all organizations they do business with, including drivers' licenses, vehicle registrations, IRS (Internal Revenue Service) stimulus payments, state/federal agencies, and voter registration.

Enhancing Privacy and Reducing Unwanted Mail

To further enhance privacy and reduce the amount of unwanted mail, individuals can take several steps:

Regularly update address information: Ensure that all entities with your contact information are informed of any changes in your address. Reduce unwanted non-first-class mail: Non-first-class mail typically is not forwarded, which can help the new tenant avoid receiving correspondence from past residents. Sign up for Informed Delivery: By signing up for Informed Delivery via USPS, individuals can receive email notifications about delivered mail, helping them keep track of which organizations need updated address information.

By staying proactive and informed, individuals can effectively manage their mailing addresses and ensure that their personal information remains secure.