What do you do with important mail for previous residents?

If you are receiving mail for the previous resident and do not know their address, simply return the mail piece back to the mailstream (by leaving in a Collection Box® or other mail receptacle) with the notation “Not at this address” marked on the envelope.

Am I obligated to return mail that isn’t yours?

It is reasonable for you to assume the mail in your mailbox belongs to you. If you do accidentally open mail that doesn’t belong to you, the best option is to re-seal the mail and write “return it to sender” and put it back in the mailbox.

How do I stop getting previous tenants mail?

How to Stop Getting Mail for Previous Residents – Things to Do

1. Write or Put Sticky Notes on the Envelope.
2. Useful Method – Cross Out the Barcode.
3. Put a Sticky Note on Your Mailbox.
4. Speak to Your Mail Carrier.
5. File a Complaint with the Postmaster.
6. Don’t Throw It Away.
7. Don’t Open the Mail.
8. Don’t Fill Out a Change of Address.

Is it illegal to forward someone else’s mail?

It is the illegal and unauthorized request to change someone’s mailing address, without their consent. Going in person to a post office location is the easiest way for someone to follow through with this form of identity theft.

What should I do with letters for previous tenants?

The previous tenant’s letters Take everything out of your mailbox and write “Return to sender” on it. Then put it back. Your mail carrier should see this and return the mail to its original sender, but it can’t hurt to let him or her know you’ve tried to return mail.

Can you get in trouble for forwarding mail?

Forwarding someone else’s mail to their new, correct and proper address is not illegal, but forwarding it elsewhere could be a big problem. Talk to the police about this. Good luck.

Can someone stop your mail from coming to your house?

USPS Hold Mail® service can hold your mail safely at your local Post Office™ facility until you return, for up to 30 days. To hold your mail longer or to reroute your mail, please sign up for a forwarding service. You can make your request up to 30 days in advance or as early as the next scheduled delivery day.