How to Address an Envelope in the U.S.

Properly addressing an envelope is crucial—not only does it ensure your mail reaches its intended recipient quickly, but it also reflects professionalism and courtesy. Whether sending personal greetings, formal invitations, or business communications, follow this straightforward guide for addressing envelopes correctly within the United States.

Why Proper Envelope Addressing Matters

Correct addressing helps USPS efficiently route your mail, minimizing delays. Clearly written addresses speed up sorting processes and prevent your mail from being lost or returned.

Basic USPS Envelope Addressing Rules

• Return Address: Write your (sender’s) address at the upper-left corner.
• Recipient Address: Write the recipient’s address clearly in the center of the envelope.
• Postage: Affix stamps at the top-right corner.

Formatting Tips:

• Print clearly using capital letters.
• Avoid cursive or decorative fonts.
• Use black or blue ink for clarity.
• Leave margins around addresses.

Step-by-Step Addressing by Type

Personal Letters:

• Sender’s Address Example:

MARY JOHNSON
123 MAIN STREET
ANYTOWN, CA 90210

• Recipient’s Address Example:

JOHN DOE
456 ELM STREET
SPRINGFIELD, IL 62704

Business Letters:

• Sender’s Address Example:

ACME CORP.
ATTN: JANE SMITH
500 MARKET STREET
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105

• Recipient’s Address Example:

ATTN: HR DEPARTMENT
XYZ CORPORATION
789 INDUSTRIAL RD, SUITE 120
CHICAGO, IL 60616

Formal Invitations (e.g., weddings):

• Sender’s Address (Back Flap):

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Brown
789 Oak Avenue
Austin, Texas 73301

• Recipient’s Address Example:

Mr. and Mrs. Robert White
123 Willow Lane
Seattle, Washington 98101

Addressing Different Envelope Sizes

Standard #10 Envelope (4⅛” x 9½”)

• Return Address: Upper-left corner.
• Recipient Address: Slightly below the vertical center.

Large Envelope (9″x12″ or 10″x13″)

• Return Address: Top-left corner.
• Recipient Address: Centered, approximately one-third from the top.

Padded Envelope (Bubble Mailers)

• Clearly print or use labels to ensure readability.
• Address format same as large envelopes.
• Ensure postage is securely affixed.

Visual Guide for Envelope Addressing

Standard Envelope:

[Return Address]                  [Postage]



           [Recipient Address]

Large/Padded Envelope:

[Return Address]                            [Postage]




                 [Recipient Address]

Tips for Speed and Accuracy

• Use ZIP+4 codes when possible for quicker delivery.
• Write legibly and use uppercase for optimal clarity.
• Double-check addresses and postal codes before mailing.
• Avoid embellishments or symbols around addresses.

Wrapping Up

Properly addressing envelopes ensures your correspondence is delivered promptly and professionally. Whether mailing personal letters, business documents, or formal invitations, adhering to USPS guidelines simplifies the process and helps maintain your professional image. Happy mailing!