Mail Delivered to Wrong Address: What to Do & Your Legal Rights (2025)
Quick Actions
- • Received someone else's mail: Write "Return to Sender" and put back in mailbox
- • Your mail went elsewhere: Contact sender and local post office
- • Never open mail not addressed to you — it can be a federal offense
If you've had mail delivered to the wrong address—or a neighbor got your mail—you're not alone. USPS misdelivered mail happens more often than you'd think. Whether you've received someone else's mail or your important documents went to the wrong house, knowing the proper steps protects both you and the intended recipient. This guide covers what to do in both situations.
If You Receive Someone Else's Mail
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Do NOT open it — Even if delivered to your address
- 2. Write on the envelope: "Return to Sender - Wrong Address" or "Not at This Address"
- 3. Cross out the barcode (if any) on the bottom of the envelope
- 4. Leave in your mailbox with the flag up, or drop in a blue collection box
Legal Warning
Opening mail not addressed to you can be a federal offense under 18 U.S. Code § 1702, potentially punishable by up to 5 years in prison. This applies even if the mail was delivered to your address. The only exception is if you have written permission from the addressee.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal questions.
If Your Mail Went to the Wrong Address
Immediate Steps
- • Check with neighbors — Politely ask if they received your mail
- • Contact sender — They may be able to resend or verify delivery
- • File a missing mail report at USPS.com
- • Contact your local post office — Speak to the postmaster
If It's a Recurring Problem
- • Verify your name is clearly on your mailbox
- • Check that address is formatted correctly in sender's records
- • File a formal complaint with your postmaster
- • Use USPS Informed Delivery to track incoming mail
What If the Wrong Recipient Keeps Your Mail?
If someone refuses to return mail that was misdelivered to them, they may be committing mail theft (18 U.S. Code § 1708). Options include:
- • Report to USPS Postal Inspectors at 1-877-876-2455
- • File a police report for mail theft
- • For important documents, contact the sender to resend
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive someone else's mail?
Write "Return to Sender - Wrong Address" on the envelope and leave it in your mailbox for the carrier, or drop it in a blue collection box. Do not open mail not addressed to you—it can be a federal offense. This information is for general guidance only.
Is it illegal to open mail delivered to my address for someone else?
Opening mail not intended for you can be a federal offense under 18 U.S. Code § 1702, even if delivered to your address. The only exception is if you have explicit permission from the addressee.
What if my mail keeps going to the wrong address?
Contact your local post office and speak to the postmaster about ongoing misdelivery. Verify your address format is correct, ensure your name is clearly on your mailbox, and consider filing a formal complaint if the problem persists.
Send Important Mail With Tracking
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