How Long Does USPS Mail Forwarding Last?
Moving or temporarily relocating? Here are the official USPS timeframes for temporary vs. permanent mail forwarding, what gets forwarded, costs, and how to extend service.
Updated •6 min read
Quick Answer
- • Temporary Forwarding: 15 days to 364 days (initial 15–185 days, then extend to a max of 364 days). Keep mail reliable with our online mail service.
- • Permanent Forwarding: 12 months total; Periodicals typically 60 days.
- • Extensions: Extended Mail Forwarding available in +6, +12, or +18 months (max +18 months beyond the initial period).
- • Cost to file online: $1.25 identity verification (in‑person PS Form 3575 is free). For reliable mail delivery to your new address, use our send letter online service.
Types of USPS Mail Forwarding
Temporary Mail Forwarding
Best for travel or short‑term moves. For important mail during your move, use our Certified Mail online service for tracking.
| Duration Option | Length | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 15 days | Short trips |
| Standard | 6 months | Common choice |
| Maximum | 364 days | Extended relocations |
Permanent Mail Forwarding
Best for full address changes.
How it works
1
Months 0–6: Most eligible classes forwarded.
2
Months 6–12: Forwarding continues for First‑Class Mail, Priority Mail, and most packages.
3
After 12 months: Standard forwarding ends (you can buy Extended Mail Forwarding up to +18 months).
What Mail Gets Forwarded?
Forwarding by Mail Type
| Mail Type | Forwarded? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First‑Class Mail | ✓ Yes | Forwarded up to 12 months. |
| Priority Mail / Priority Mail Express | ✓ Yes | Forwarded for free during the active period. |
| Packages (incl. USPS Ground Advantage) | ✓ Generally | Most packages forward for free while your order is active; some classes may incur postage‑due per DMM. |
| Periodicals (magazines, newsletters) | ✓ Yes (limited) | Typically forwarded for 60 days. |
| Media Mail / Library Mail | ~ It depends | Often forwarded postage‑due at the single‑piece price if forwarded; policies vary by class and time window. |
| USPS Marketing Mail (ads, many catalogs) | ✗ No | Not forwarded unless the mailer pays for an ancillary endorsement. |
USPS Mail Forwarding Costs 2025
Online Setup
$1.25
Identity verification fee
- • 24/7 at USPS.com/move
- • Mobile phone verification
- • Email confirmation & code
In‑Person Setup
$0
At your local Post Office
- • Ask for the free Mover's Guide
- • Fill out PS Form 3575
- • Bring photo ID
Premium Forwarding
Weekly fee
Temporary only (2–52 weeks)
- • Weekly Priority Mail® shipments
- • Enrollment + weekly charges
- • Best for trips 2 weeks to 1 year
Note: Standard forwarding includes First‑Class and most packages; Media/Library Mail can be forwarded postage‑due; Marketing Mail isn't forwarded.
How to Extend or Renew Forwarding
Extension Timeline
30~30 days left: USPS typically emails a reminder to add Extended Mail Forwarding if needed.
0When time ends: Standard forwarding stops; First‑Class is usually returned to sender with a yellow label showing your new address.
Extension Options
🧾 Extended Mail Forwarding
- • Add +6, +12, or +18 months (max +18 months total)
- • Add during setup or later via your confirmation link
- • Fees per USPS Notice 123 (non‑refundable)
🌐 Update Online
Use the edit link from your USPS confirmation email/code.
- • Confirm identity online ($1.25) or visit the Post Office free
What Happens When Forwarding Expires?
After Forwarding Ends
- 1. Immediately: USPS stops forwarding new mail.
- 2. Next ~6 months: First‑Class items are typically returned to sender with your new address label.
- 3. Marketing Mail: Not forwarded; usually discarded if undeliverable.
- 4. Packages: Handled per class and may be returned once forwarding ends.
Pro Tip: Set a calendar reminder 45 days before expiration so you can renew or finish updating addresses with senders.
Explore mailing optionsSee our services
For step-by-step setup of forwarding, visit USPS.com. Our services help with sending mail during your move.