Unclaimed Letters

Getting Started

This article explains what it means when a Certified Letter is marked as “unclaimed,” why it happens, and what actions can be taken next.

In This Article

• What “Unclaimed” Means
• Recipient Unavailable
• Schedule Redelivery
• Returned to Sender

What “Unclaimed” Means

After attempted delivery, the Post Office will hold the letter for pick up or redelivery. If your Certified Letter shows a status of “unclaimed,” it means the recipient did not pick up the letter within that timeframe.

Recipient Unavailable

When delivery is attempted and no one is available to sign:

• The mail carrier cannot leave the letter because a signature is required.
• A notice is left at the recipient’s address (door or mailbox).
• The notice informs them that the letter is being held at a nearby Post Office for pickup.

Schedule Redelivery

If the recipient did not receive the letter:

• You can request another delivery attempt through the USPS website.
• Click here to fill out the Redelivery section with the appropriate information.
• USPS will attempt to deliver the letter again if redelivery is available.

Returned to Sender

If no action is taken:

• The letter will be held at the Post Office for a limited time, roughly 15 days.
• If it is not picked up and no redelivery is scheduled, it will be returned to the sender.
• The sender usually receives the returned letter within approximately 10 days.