How to File a USPS Insurance Claim Online

When items sent via the United States Postal Service (USPS) are lost or damaged, an insurance claim provides a mechanism for financial recovery. This process allows senders or recipients to seek compensation for the declared value of merchandise that was either not delivered or arrived in an unusable condition. Filing an online claim is important for recovering losses.

Eligibility and Required Information

Before initiating an online claim with the USPS, confirm eligibility and gather all necessary documentation. Either the sender or the recipient of an insured mailpiece can file a claim for lost, damaged, or missing contents. This includes items sent via Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, Registered Mail, or Collect on Delivery (COD) when insurance was purchased or included.

Claims must be filed within specific timeframes, which vary by mail service and issue. For damaged items or missing contents, a claim can be filed immediately, but no later than 60 days from the mailing date. For lost articles, a waiting period applies, ranging from 7 to 15 days after the mailing date for services like Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail, with a maximum filing period of 60 days.

The tracking number of the mailpiece is required, often found on the original mailing receipt or online label record. Proof of insurance, such as the original mailing receipt, a printout of the online label record, or an insurance purchase receipt, is also necessary to confirm coverage.

Proof of value establishes the financial worth of the item at the time of mailing. Acceptable forms include sales receipts, paid invoices, credit card statements, or estimates for repair costs from a reputable dealer. For items valued up to $100, a detailed statement describing the lost or damaged article, including purchase date, amount paid, and whether it was new or used, may suffice if a formal receipt is unavailable.

For damaged items, proof of damage is required, usually clear photographs. These images should show the extent of the damage to both the item and its packaging. Retain the original packaging and all contents until the claim is settled, as the USPS may request an inspection. For lost items, confirmation of non-delivery or a Missing Mail Search request may be required before filing the claim.

Complete contact information for both the sender and the recipient, including full names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses, is required. This ensures the USPS can communicate effectively regarding the claim’s status and any requests for additional information.

The Filing Process

With all necessary information and documentation prepared, submit the claim through the USPS online portal. Navigate to the USPS website’s domestic claims section and either sign in to an existing USPS.com account or create a new one. Your claim will be associated with this account, allowing you to save progress and track its status later.

After logging in, you will be prompted to enter the tracking or label number and the mailing date of the package. You will then select the reason for filing the claim, such as a lost package, damaged item, or missing contents. The online form guides you through providing specific details about the incident.

When describing the contents, identify each item and provide its purchase date and the amount requested for reimbursement. Upload your prepared proof of value documents, which should be in formats like PDF or JPG files. For damaged items, upload photographs that clearly depict the damage to both the item and its packaging.

The online portal guides you through each section, prompting for the information you have already gathered. You will input the sender and recipient address details into the designated fields. After all information has been entered, review the entire claim submission for accuracy.

Once satisfied with the entered information, submit the claim. Upon successful submission, the USPS system provides a confirmation number, and an email confirmation may also be sent to your account’s address. Claims can also be initiated by mail by requesting a Domestic Claim PS Form through USPS Customer Service.

Claim Review and Payment

After a claim is submitted, the USPS begins its review process. Claims are often resolved within 5 to 10 business days. During the review, the USPS may require additional information or evidence to support the claim. If this occurs, you will be notified through your online account or via mail, with instructions on how to provide the requested documentation. Respond promptly to these requests to avoid delays or potential denial of the claim.

To check the status of a filed claim, log into your USPS.com account and access your Claim History. This section provides updates on the claim’s progress from submission to decision.

If a claim is approved, payment is issued as a check mailed to the address provided in the claim. Reimbursement covers the actual value of the mail contents, up to the insured amount. If a claim is denied, the USPS will provide a reason for the decision. You have the right to appeal this decision within 30 calendar days from the date of the original denial letter.

Appeals should focus on addressing the reasons for the denial and may include submitting new documentation to support your case. The appeal must be submitted in the same manner as the original claim, either online or by mail.