THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025
I Received a Vacant Notice
Explanation of a "Vacant" notice and steps to take.
Feb 12, 2025Knowledge
Article Number
000007832
Customer Information
Vacant Notices
Why did I receive a notice that says "Vacant" in my mailbox and no mail delivery?
A customer may receive a "Vacant" notice and stop receiving mail for one of the following common circumstances:
The address appears vacant (though someone may still be residing at the address or picking up mail from the address).
Mail is not being removed from the box.
The customer is residing at a new address.
The address is new construction.
What should I do if I receive a "Vacant" Notice?
Follow the instructions on the notice (see image below).
Or you may:
Take the notice and valid photo identification to your local Post Office® location to retrieve your mail. The notice must be presented in order to pick up your held mail. See also: Picking Up Mail that is Being Held at Your Post Office
Contact your local Post Office® by email, click Contact Us and select "Send Email"
Mail will be held for 10 days before being returned to sender.
Image of the Vacancy Notice
Vacancy Notice Image
Time Frame for Vacancy Notices:
Rural addresses are considered 'vacant' after 90 days have passed.
City addresses are considered 'vacant' at the carrier's discretion.
For apartments, the carrier is usually notified once a new customer moves into the vacant apartment. The carrier will take the mail left in the box and it will be marked "Moved, Left No Address" and returned to sender.
Posted 12:06 PM