What certified mail gives you
When you choose “Send it certified (US)”, your letter is printed and posted for you as USPS Certified Mail with an electronic return receipt.
What Certified Mail is
Certified Mail is a USPS service that records the mailing and the delivery. The letter travels as ordinary First-Class Mail with a tracking number, and USPS keeps a record that it was delivered — or that delivery was attempted.
The return receipt
The electronic return receipt is a copy of the recipient’s signature, sent to you after delivery. It shows who signed and when.
How long it takes
USPS states First-Class Mail typically arrives in one to five business days within the United States. Certified Mail travels at the same speed; the certification is a record, not a courier service.
What it proves — and what it does not
It proves that a letter was posted on a date and delivered on a date, and who signed for it. It says nothing about what the letter contains, whether the recipient read it, or what happens next.
United States only
Certified Mail is a USPS service, so both addresses must be in the United States. The return address on the envelope is your own.
What it costs
$19.99 for one letter, including printing, postage, certification and the return receipt.
CraftMyLetter writes and delivers letters. It is not legal advice, and we are not a law firm.