How to Write and Address a Letter
Sending a letter might feel old-school, but it’s still one of the best ways to communicate for official, legal, or heartfelt messages. Whether you’re mailing a form, thank you note, or legal notice, knowing how to properly address and stamp your envelope matters.
How to Write a Letter
You can handwrite your message with a pen or type it on your computer. Typed letters are preferred for formal communication like job applications, official notices, or legal matters. Handwritten notes are more personal and often used for thank-you cards or holiday greetings.
Start with a greeting (e.g., "Dear [Name],"), write your message clearly, and end with a closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards" followed by your name. If you're including any attachments, mention them at the bottom.
Where to Write the Addresses
On the front of your envelope:
- Recipient's Address goes in the center. Include full name, street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
- Your Return Address goes in the top-left corner. This ensures your letter returns to you if undeliverable.
Where to Put the Stamp
The stamp always goes in the top-right corner of the envelope. For a standard 1oz letter in the U.S., one Forever Stamp is enough.
How Much Postage Do You Need?
Most standard letters (under 1 oz) can be mailed with one Forever Stamp. If your letter weighs more than 1 oz, you’ll need extra postage.
| Letter Type | Postage Needed |
|---|---|
| Standard (1 oz) | 1 Forever Stamp |
| Heavier (2 oz) | 1 Forever + extra postage |
| International | Global Forever Stamp ($1.55) |
| Certified Mail | Extra fee applies |
Where to Get Postage
You can buy stamps at most grocery stores, post offices, or online from USPS.com. Or skip stamps entirely and use TheLetterPilot — we handle postage and delivery for you.
Where to Drop Off a Letter
You can drop your letter in a blue USPS collection box, your home mailbox (raise the flag), at a local post office, or just use TheLetterPilot to send it digitally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I write the recipient address on an envelope?
In the center of the front of the envelope. Include the name, street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
Where does the return address go?
In the top-left corner of the envelope.
Where do I put the stamp?
In the top-right corner of the envelope.
Can I send a letter without going to the post office?
Yes. You can use TheLetterPilot to send your letter online. We print, address, stamp, and mail it for you.
👇 Want to skip the stamps and envelope?
Send Letter OnlineWant to learn more about mailing letters the easy way? Check out our guide on how to mail a letter online — no printer or stamps required.
Tags: write a letter, address envelope, where to place stamp, letter mailing guide, TheLetterPilot