How to Write an Address on Mail (USPS Format)

What You’ll Need

Envelope (standard #10 or similar)
Pen with dark ink (blue or black)
The recipient’s full name and address
Your return address
Postage stamp (correct amount)

Step-by-Step

Check the envelope orientation. Hold the envelope with the flap facing down (the flap is on the back). The front is the smooth side with no flap. The top edge is where the stamp goes.
Write the return address (top-left corner). Put your name on the first line, your street address on the second, and your city, state, and ZIP code on the third. This ensures the mail is returned to you if it can’t be delivered.
Write the recipient’s name (center). Start about halfway down the envelope, slightly left of center. Use the person’s full name and any title (Mr., Ms., Dr.) if appropriate. For a business, write the person’s name first, then the company name on the next line.
Write the street address (second line). Include the house number and street name. Use standard abbreviations (St., Ave., Blvd.) if needed. If there’s an apartment, suite, or unit number, put it on the same line after the street, or on the line above if it’s long.
Write the city, state, and ZIP code (third line). Use the official two-letter state abbreviation (e.g., CA, NY, TX). Put one space between the state and the ZIP code. If you know the ZIP+4 (e.g., 12345-6789), include it for faster delivery.
Affix the stamp (top-right corner). Place the stamp in the top-right corner. Make sure it’s firmly attached and not overlapping the address area.

Common Mistakes

Writing the address too low or too high. The address should be in the lower half of the envelope, but not too close to the bottom edge. Leave at least 1 inch from the bottom.
Using punctuation. Do not use commas or periods in the address (e.g., write “123 Main St” not “123 Main St.”). Commas are only used between the city and state if you write the full state name, but the standard format omits them.
Putting the return address in the wrong place. It must be in the top-left corner, not on the back or centered.
Illegible handwriting. If the postal service can’t read the address, your mail may be delayed or returned. Write clearly in block letters.
Forgetting the ZIP code. Missing ZIP codes cause delays. Always include the 5-digit ZIP at minimum.

Tips

Use a label or printed address. If your handwriting is messy, print the address on a label or directly on the envelope using a printer.
Keep it flat. Don’t write on a bumpy surface; place the envelope on a hard surface to get smooth, even writing.
Double-check the address. Verify the street name, number, and ZIP with the recipient if possible.
Use the correct state abbreviations. The USPS has a list of official two-letter abbreviations. For example, use “CA” not “Calif.”
For international mail. Write the destination country in capital letters on the last line. Add your return address with the country name too.

Troubleshooting

If your mail comes back to you, check the return address for errors. If it’s returned due to insufficient postage, add more stamps and resend. If the address was correct but the mail was returned, the recipient may have moved – try contacting them directly. If you’re unsure about the ZIP code, use the USPS ZIP Code lookup tool (available online) to verify it. For damaged or illegible envelopes, rewrite the address on a new envelope.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly do I put the stamp?

In the top-right corner of the envelope, about 1 inch from the top and right edges.

Can I write the address on the back of the envelope?

No, the address must be on the front. The back is for the flap and is not read by mail sorting machines.

What if I don’t know the ZIP code?

Use the USPS ZIP Code lookup tool on their website, or ask the recipient. You can also write the city and state without a ZIP, but it may slow delivery.

Should I use a return address?

Yes, it’s required for most mail classes and helps return the item if undeliverable. It’s also good practice for personal mail.

How do I address an envelope to a family?

Write “The Smith Family” on the first line, then the street address, then city/state/ZIP.

What about PO boxes?

Write “PO Box 123” instead of a street address. If the recipient has both, use the PO Box – mail is delivered there.

Sources: USPS. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.