How to Forward Mail for Someone Else (2025 Guide)
Whether you're helping an elderly parent, managing affairs for someone who's moved, or handling mail for a deceased family member—this guide explains the legal requirements for forwarding someone else's mail.
Important Legal Warning
Filing a Change of Address for someone without their consent can be treated as mail fraud—a federal crime—and may lead to serious penalties including fines and imprisonment. You must have proper legal authorization before forwarding anyone else's mail.
This includes former roommates, ex-spouses, and family members. Even good intentions don't excuse unauthorized mail forwarding.
Who Can Legally Forward Someone's Mail?
The Person Themselves
The easiest option is always for the person to file their own Change of Address. They can do this online, by mail, or in person. Help them through the process if needed.
Someone With Written Authorization
The person can sign a letter authorizing you to file a COA on their behalf. This letter should include their signature, full name, addresses, and explicit permission.
Power of Attorney Holder
If you have Power of Attorney (POA) for someone, you can manage their mail affairs. Bring your POA documents to the post office.
Legal Guardian/Conservator
Court-appointed guardians or conservators can manage mail for those under their care. Bring court documents proving your status.
Executor/Administrator of Estate
If someone has passed away, the executor or administrator can forward their mail. Requires death certificate and letters testamentary/administration.
Note: Exact documentation requirements can vary by location. Confirm with your local post office before you go to ensure you have everything needed.
Common Scenarios & Solutions
Forwarding Mail for an Elderly Parent
If your parent is moving to assisted living or moving in with you:
Option A: Have Them File
The simplest approach. Help them file online at USPS.com/move or go with them to the post office.
Option B: Get Written Authorization
Have them sign a letter authorizing you to file on their behalf. Bring this letter and your ID to the post office.
Option C: Use Power of Attorney
If you already have POA, bring those documents to the post office with your ID.
Forwarding Mail for a Deceased Person
As executor or administrator of the estate:
Required Documents:
- • Death certificate (certified copy)
- • Letters testamentary or letters of administration from probate court
- • Your valid government ID
Steps:
- Visit the post office serving the deceased's address
- Present your documents to a postal clerk
- Request to file a COA for the deceased
- Mail will forward to your address or a P.O. Box
Handling Mail for a Former Resident
If you're receiving mail for someone who moved out:
You cannot file a COA for them. Instead:
- • Write "Return to Sender - No longer at this address" on the mail
- • Place it back in your mailbox for the carrier
- • Contact the former resident and ask them to file their own COA
- • Talk to your mail carrier about the ongoing issue
Forwarding Mail for Someone Incarcerated
If a family member is incarcerated:
- • They can file a COA themselves (if the facility allows)
- • They can provide written authorization for you to file
- • Contact the facility about their mail policy
- • Some facilities have specific mail forwarding procedures
Sample Authorization Letter
[Date] U.S. Postal Service To Whom It May Concern: I, [FULL NAME], hereby authorize [AUTHORIZED PERSON'S NAME] to file a Change of Address on my behalf. My current address: [OLD ADDRESS] Please forward my mail to: [NEW ADDRESS] Effective date: [DATE] This is a [PERMANENT/TEMPORARY] change. I understand that filing a fraudulent Change of Address is a federal offense. Signature: _________________________ Printed Name: [FULL NAME] Date of Birth: [DOB] --- Authorized Person Information: Name: [NAME] Relationship: [RELATIONSHIP] Phone: [PHONE NUMBER]
Bring this signed letter along with your ID to any post office. The clerk may ask additional verification questions.
Documents You'll Need
| Situation | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Written Authorization | Signed authorization letter + Your ID |
| Power of Attorney | POA documents + Your ID |
| Guardianship | Court guardianship order + Your ID |
| Deceased Person | Death certificate + Letters testamentary + Your ID |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I forward mail for someone else?
Yes, but only with proper authorization. You need written permission (Power of Attorney or signed authorization letter), or you must be their legal guardian. Filing a Change of Address for someone without their consent can be treated as mail fraud—a federal crime—and may lead to serious penalties.
How do I forward mail for a deceased family member?
As executor or administrator of the estate, you can file a COA for the deceased. Bring death certificate, proof of executor status (letters testamentary), and your ID to the post office. Mail can be forwarded to the executor's address or P.O. Box.
Can I forward mail for my elderly parent?
Yes, with their written consent (signed authorization) or if you have Power of Attorney. Have them sign a letter authorizing you to manage their mail, or bring your POA documents to the post office.
What documents do I need to forward someone else's mail?
You'll need: the person's written authorization letter with their signature, Power of Attorney documents, or proof of executor/guardian status. Plus your own valid government ID.
Can I forward my ex's mail after they move out?
No. You cannot file a Change of Address for a former roommate, ex-spouse, or anyone else without their written authorization. Instead, mark their mail "Return to Sender - No longer at this address" and contact them to file their own COA.
What should I do if someone keeps sending mail to my address?
Write "Return to Sender - Not at this address" on the mail and place it in your mailbox for the carrier. You can also speak with your mail carrier or local post office about the ongoing issue. Do not open mail addressed to others.
Need to Send Important Documents?
Certified Mail is often used when you need tracking and proof of delivery or attempted delivery for legal documents and important correspondence.