Is USPS First Class Mail Insured? What You Need to Know

When sending mail through the United States Postal Service (USPS), understanding insurance coverage is important for protecting your shipments. First Class Mail is a standard, cost-effective service for letters and lightweight packages. First Class Mail does not automatically include insurance coverage. However, senders can add protection.

First Class Mail Insurance Options

Senders can purchase USPS insurance for First Class Mail. This additional protection covers items against loss, damage, or missing contents during transit. The cost of this insurance varies based on the declared value of the item, with coverage limits up to $5,000 for domestic shipments. For example, coverage for an item valued up to $50 might cost around $2.70, with fees increasing for higher declared values.

Senders can add coverage at a Post Office counter when mailing their item. Online, insurance can be selected when creating shipping labels through services like Click-N-Ship. Providing the declared value of the item and accurate sender/recipient details is necessary for this process.

For valuable items, Registered Mail offers heightened security and includes insurance. This service provides a secure chain of custody, ensuring careful handling and tracking. Registered Mail includes insurance coverage up to $50,000, corresponding to the declared value of the item. While its primary purpose is security, the included insurance provides financial protection.

Preparing for an Insurance Claim

If an insured First Class Mail item is lost or damaged, gather specific information and documentation before initiating a claim. Senders should collect proof of mailing, such as the original Post Office receipt or a printout of an online postage purchase record. Proof of value is also necessary, which can include sales receipts, invoices, appraisals, or an online transaction printout. For damaged items, clear photographs of the item, packaging, and internal packing materials are important.

For lost mail, a waiting period is required before a claim can be filed, 15 days after the mailing date for insured mail. For items that arrived damaged or with missing contents, a claim can be filed immediately. All claims, whether for loss or damage, must be filed no later than 60 days from the mailing date. Either the sender or the recipient can file a claim, but the person filing must have the original mailing receipt.

Submitting an Insurance Claim

After gathering documentation, submit the insurance claim. Claims can be filed online through the USPS website or by mail.

To file online, individuals need to create or log in to their USPS.com account. They will then navigate to the claims section and provide the tracking or label number, mailing date, and address. The system will prompt for the reason for the claim and allow for the electronic upload of supporting documents, such as proof of value and evidence of insurance, typically in PDF or JPG format. Senders can save their claim progress for up to three days if they cannot complete it in one session.

For those who prefer to file by mail, a Domestic Claim Form (PS Form 1000) can be obtained by calling the USPS National Materials Customer Service. This form should be completed and mailed, along with copies of all required supporting documentation, to the address provided on the form. After a claim is submitted, USPS initiates an investigation. Decisions on claims are typically rendered within 5-10 business days after all necessary information is received, with payment for approved claims usually issued within 7-10 business days.