How to Address an Envelope (USPS Guide + Examples for 2025)
Reviewed by The Letter Pilot team •
This 2025 USPS guide shows the correct way to address an envelope — including where to put the return address, how to format the recipient's address, and the exact spot for your postage stamp. Following these rules helps your mail move quickly through USPS systems.
Table of Contents
1. Add Your Return Address
Write your name and return address in the top left corner. This tells USPS where to return the letter if it can’t be delivered.
2. Write the Recipient's Address in the Center
Center the recipient's name and address both horizontally and vertically. Be sure to include:
- Full name
- Street address (with apartment/unit number if applicable)
- City, state, and ZIP+4 code when available
USPS recommends uppercase for the last line (CITY STATE ZIP) and minimal punctuation. Include ZIP+4 if available for faster processing.
Sample recipient address
JANE DOE 1234 MAIN ST APT 5B SPRINGFIELD IL 62704-1234
USPS recommends uppercase for the last line (CITY STATE ZIP) and minimal punctuation. Include ZIP+4 when available.
3. Place Your Stamp
The stamp goes in the top right corner. Use a Forever Stamp for a 1-oz First-Class letter or calculate exact postage based on weight and destination.
Prefer printed labels or tracking?
See our guides on Certified Mail and how to mail a letter online.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using red ink; use blue or black.
- Missing apartment or unit numbers.
- Writing in the barcode clear zone (a ⅝″-tall strip along the entire bottom width of the front).
- Decorative/condensed fonts; use clear, machine-readable text.
Correct vs. Incorrect Addressing
Here's the correct way vs. the wrong way to address an envelope, based on USPS rules. Use this quick comparison to avoid common mistakes.
✓ Correct Example
JANE DOE 1234 MAIN ST APT 5B SPRINGFIELD IL 62704-1234
Clear, uppercase, complete address with ZIP+4
✗ Incorrect Example
jane doe 1234 main street apartment 5b springfield, illinois 62704
Lowercase, spelled out state, missing ZIP+4
Note: This guide covers U.S. domestic mail. For international mail, see USPS international addressing requirements.
Next steps
For postage and service options, see current letter postage and mailing a letter online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I put the return address on an envelope?
Top left corner of the front of the envelope. This is where to put return address on envelope according to USPS standards.
Where does the stamp go on a letter?
Top right corner of the envelope, at least ¼ inch from the top and right edges.
Do I need to include a return address?
It's strongly recommended so USPS can return undeliverable mail. While not legally required for domestic mail, it prevents lost letters.
What happens if I don't put a return address?
If your letter can't be delivered and has no return address, USPS treats it as undeliverable-as-addressed. Items may be sent to the Mail Recovery Center to attempt identification, or disposed of if they can't be returned. This is what happens if you don't put a return address on an envelope in 2025.
Can I use pencil to address an envelope?
USPS prefers ink over pencil for addressing envelopes. Use blue or black ink for best readability and durability during mail processing.
Does USPS require ZIP+4 on letters?
ZIP+4 is not required for regular mail delivery, but it speeds up processing and reduces the chance of misdelivery. Include it when available. USPS can deliver letters without ZIP+4, but delivery may be slower.
Related Topics
Related topics include: correct way to address an envelope, how to write address on envelope, USPS envelope addressing rules, and where to put return address on envelope. This guide covers all these topics with current 2025 USPS standards.
More Guides You Might Like
- How to Mail a Letter Step-by-Step
- How to Format an Address Correctly
- How to Send Certified Mail
- All Mailing Guides
USPS standards and formatting last reviewed August 2025