How Much Is It to Open Up a PO Box?

A Post Office Box, or PO Box, offers a secure and convenient way to receive mail. It functions as a locked mailbox within a Post Office facility, providing an alternative to home or business delivery. This service is used by individuals seeking privacy or businesses needing a dedicated mailing address. PO Boxes are typically accessible during Post Office hours, with some locations offering 24/7 access.

Understanding PO Box Rental Costs

The cost of renting a PO Box is not uniform across all locations and depends on several factors. Box size, the length of the rental period, and the Post Office location significantly influence the total fee. The United States Postal Service (USPS) sets these prices, which can vary widely.

PO Box sizes generally range from extra-small (Size 1) to extra-large (Size 5), with larger boxes typically incurring higher costs. An extra-small box, measuring approximately 3″ x 5.5″, can hold 10-15 letter-sized envelopes, while an extra-large box (around 22.5″ x 12″) is suitable for multiple packages. For instance, an extra-small box might cost around $58 annually in a rural area, whereas an extra-large box could reach up to $1,512 annually in a high-demand urban location.

The rental period also affects the price, with discounts for longer commitments. Customers can choose 3, 6, or 12-month terms. Opting for a 12-month rental often results in a lower monthly average cost.

Location plays a substantial role in pricing, as costs differ significantly between urban and rural areas. Post Offices categorize locations into pricing tiers. Urban areas generally have higher PO Box prices due to higher demand and operational costs. For precise pricing, check with the specific Post Office where you intend to rent a box.

Other Charges Associated with PO Boxes

Beyond the base rental fee, other charges can be associated with a PO Box. A refundable key deposit is typically required for the keys issued. Two keys are usually provided, and additional or replacement keys may incur non-refundable fees.

Late fees can be assessed if the PO Box rental is not renewed on time. If payment is delayed, access to the mail in the box may be restricted, and the Post Office may remove mail and close the box after a certain period, typically 10 days of non-payment. Renewal fees are recurring charges that must be paid to continue using the service.

Additional services may also incur costs. For instance, a fee may be charged for initiating a lock change on the PO Box. While some services like signature on file authorization are often free, others like premium mail forwarding or street addressing, where available, might have an annual cost.

Applying for a PO Box

The process of applying for a PO Box involves gathering specific documentation and completing an application, which can be done either online or in person. To initiate the application, two forms of acceptable United States identification are required. One form of identification must be a photo ID, and the other must be traceable to the bearer, providing proof of your physical address.

Acceptable photo IDs include a valid U.S. driver’s license, state non-driver’s identification card, passport, or U.S. Armed Forces identification card. Non-photo IDs can include a current lease, mortgage, deed of trust, voter registration card, or vehicle registration card. Social Security cards, credit cards, and birth certificates are not accepted forms of identification.

The primary application form is PS Form 1093. This form requires information such as the applicant’s full name, street address, contact details, desired box size, and rental term. It also includes sections for listing individuals authorized to receive or pick up mail. Payment for the initial rental fee and key deposits can be made using cash, check, credit card, or debit card.

Applying for a PO Box can be done through an online reservation system or by visiting a Post Office. Online applicants select a location, box size, and payment period, then complete the digital PS Form 1093 and make the initial payment. After online submission, visit the selected Post Office within 30 days to present identification and receive keys. For in-person applications, complete PS Form 1093, present identification, and make payment at the counter. Once approved and confirmed, the applicant receives keys, allowing immediate access.