USPS Account Deletion Guide: Comprehensive Steps for Permanent Account Elimination
If you've decided to part ways with the United States Postal Service (USPS) and close your account, here's what you need to know.
Reasons for Closing a USPS Account
There could be several reasons why you might want to close your USPS account. These include protecting your personal information from hackers, clearing out old, unused online accounts, or moving away from USPS services.
Steps to Close a USPS Account
Closing a USPS account requires some preparation. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Gather your personal identification documents and have your login credentials ready.
- Review any active services linked to your account and back up important account-related information.
- Log in to your USPS account and locate the account management options.
- Follow the prompts to complete the account deletion process.
Please note that USPS does not provide a direct "account deletion" option in the typical sense for personal users. Instead, you can stop mail services linked to your USPS account by cancelling forwarding requests or opting out of prescreened credit and insurance offers.
Effects of Stopping USPS Services
Ceasing forwarding means mail will no longer be redirected, and any new mail will return to sender if the address is no longer valid or not updated. Opting out of prescreened offers reduces junk mail related to credit and insurance but does not affect all USPS services or regular mail.
If you plan to move or change your address permanently, forwarding provides a grace period during which mail is redirected, helping avoid lost important documents like tax forms or insurance papers.
Important Notes
- USPS accounts linked to email or online services do not have a formal deletion process; rather, users can close or stop using services.
- Any physical mailbox or PO Box service closure must be done in person or by contacting USPS, typically involving clearing out mail and cancelling the box rental.
- USPS continues to handle mail delivery and address changes per its policies even if forwarding or account usage ceases.
Alternatives to Closing Your Account
If you're concerned about privacy but don't want to close your account entirely, you can modify account settings to address these concerns. Another alternative is account deactivation, which allows you to pause your account without deleting it and keep your account info.
USPS Resources for Help
If you need assistance with managing your account, deleting your account, or fixing problems, USPS provides resources on their official website, Twitter, and Facebook. USPS customer support can also be reached at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).
After Deleting Your Account
After deleting your USPS account, you'll lose access to saved addresses, shipping preferences, tracking history, the ability to schedule package pickups online, and digital mail management tools. USPS retains some basic transactional data for legal and record-keeping reasons after account deletion.
[1] - USPS Opt-Out Prescreen [2] - USPS Forwarding Information
- To protect your personal information and reduce junk mail, consider modifying your USPS account settings instead of closing it entirely.
- In case you're moving, using USPS forwarding provides a grace period for important documents, unlike closing your account which cuts off all mail services.
- If you choose to stop using USPS services, be aware that there is no direct account deletion option for personal users; however, you can opt out of prescreened offers or cancel any linked mail management services.
- When it comes to managing your postage, technology, finance, or mail-related news, USPS customer support can be reached for assistance and guidance via their website, social media, or at 1-800-ASK-USPS.
