Return receipt requested: ERR vs Green Card — which is right for you?
| Feature | Electronic Return Receipt (ERR) | Green Card (PS Form 3811) |
|---|---|---|
| Proof you receive | PDF with delivery date/time, address, and when captured, the signature image | Physical postcard returned with the recipient's signature (also called the "green return receipt card," "PS3811," or "Form 3811") |
| Speed | Usually available soon after delivery scans; emailed | Mailed back, which adds extra days; can be lost or damaged |
| Storage | Digital: easy to file and share | Physical: must be retained securely |
| Our pricing | $13.00 | $16.00 |
| Best for | Most notices needing quick, digital proof | When a physical original is explicitly required |
Prices include Certified Mail fee, First-Class postage, and all USPS fees.
Return Receipt cost & pricing (ERR or PS Form 3811)
Certified + ERR
Starting at
$13.00
- ERR PDF emailed to you
- Dashboard storage of proofs
- Next-day mailing (by 8 PM ET)
- Meets typical requirements
Most Popular
Certified + Green Card
Starting at
$16.00
- Physical PS Form 3811 returned
- Tracking & delivery in dashboard
- Next-day mailing (by 8 PM ET)
- Meets typical requirements
+ Restricted Delivery
Starting at
$30.00
- Addressee-only signature
- Extra chain-of-custody control
- Works with ERR or Green Card
USPS extra-service fees (as of Jul 13, 2025)
- Certified Mail fee: $5.30
- Return Receipt — Electronic (ERR): $2.82
- Return Receipt — Green Card: $4.40
- Restricted Delivery: $13.70
Plus First-Class Mail® postage by weight/shape. Fees subject to USPS changes.
Just need Certified Mail without a return receipt? Send Certified Mail online →
Create an Account for Full Access
Create a free account to view live tracking updates, download your ERR proof-of-delivery PDF, and manage all your Certified Mail in one dashboard. You can also send without an account if you prefer.
How Return Receipt works online
Simple 4-step process for sending Certified Mail with Return Receipt.
1
Upload document
Upload your PDF or compose online
2
Pick ERR or Green Card
Choose the proof type that fits your requirement
3
We process & submit
Print, certify, and hand off to USPS (before cut-off)
4
Get proof
ERR PDF via email, or green card by mail
Ready to send with Return Receipt?
Choose ERR for speed, or Green Card if a physical original is required.
Send Certified MailMailed next USPS business day · Orders by 8 PM ET
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I download PS Form 3811 online?
No. PS Form 3811 (the green card) is an official USPS postcard completed and processed at mailing. When you select the Green Card option here, we supply and affix it. No download or post office trip needed.
What if I need delivery info after mailing?
Choose ERR to receive a PDF after delivery. If you mailed without Return Receipt and need details later, USPS provides a separate process (PS Form 3811-A) to request delivery information after mailing.
Do I get a signature with ERR?
ERR provides a digital receipt; when a signature is captured, its image appears on the PDF. If USPS completes delivery without a signature, the receipt still shows date, time, and address details.
Is a green card ever required?
Some agencies or jurisdictions ask specifically for PS Form 3811. If your notice or counsel specifies "Return Receipt (mail)," choose the green card option.
How fast will I get my proof?
ERR PDFs are typically available shortly after USPS shows delivery. Green cards are mailed back and can take extra days to reach you.
What happens if no one signs?
USPS will leave a notice and attempt redelivery or hold the item for pickup (generally up to 15 days). You'll still have delivery-attempt records and can request pickup or redelivery.
How much is Return Receipt?
As of Jul 13, 2025, Electronic Return Receipt (ERR) is $2.82 and the green card (PS Form 3811) is $4.40, plus the Certified Mail fee and First-Class postage.
Is Return Receipt the same as Certified Mail?
No. Certified Mail is the extra service that gives proof of mailing and delivery. Return Receipt (ERR or green card) is an add-on that provides a delivery receipt (often with signature).
Does Return Receipt include signature?
Return Receipt provides delivery details; when USPS captures a signature, it appears on the ERR PDF or the mailed green card.
Can I use Return Receipt to a P.O. Box?
Yes. USPS leaves a notice for pickup with signature. ERR will reflect delivery and pickup events; the green card is mailed back after pickup.