Verifying Your Identity (USPS 1583 Form)

Many users wonder why the United States Postal Service (USPS) 1583 form is required, or why it asks for two different types of identification. This article explains everything.

This form is required by the United States Postal Service as their method to verify we’re doing our due diligence to protect your privacy.

 This step is essential because:

• The U.S. Postal Service requires all Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies (CMRA), like Earth Class Mail, to collect the notarized document from every customer that intends to have their mail opened, scanned or shipped after we’ve received it at one of our addresses.
• It ensures that you, and only authorized parties, are able to access mail that is addressed to you.

Understanding the Postal Consent Form (HINT: It's NOT a change of address)

The 1583 Form authorizes us to accept mail in your name. It does not change your address with the USPS or tell us where to forward your mail.

To get mail directed to your Earth Class Mail address, you'll need to notify senders of your new address, we can help with that, or file a Change of Address with the U.S. Postal Service.

The form will need to be notarized, and since a company can’t appear before a notary an individual will need to serve as the applicant on the form. The notary needs to see two forms of ID as proof that you are the applicant listed on the USPS Form 1583.

Your personal information will never be public, used on your account or even impact your mailing services. The information requested on this form is strictly used to complete the USPS form 1583 that will be securely filed away as proof that we received your consent to open, scan or ship mail that’s addressed to you.

Acceptable Forms of Identification

Important Notes:

• At least one ID must have a photo of the applicant
• At least one ID must verify the home or business address
• ID's lacking both a photo and address are not acceptable per these requirements.

ID's that are acceptable:

• Valid driver’s license or state identification card (not a driver's license)
• Armed forces or government identification card
• Passport, alien registration card, or certificate of naturalization
• A Current lease, mortgage, or deed of trust
• Voter or vehicle registration card
• Home or vehicle insurance policy
• School ID
• Work/Corporate ID

ID's that are NOT acceptable:

• Social security cards
• Credit cards
• Birth certificates
• Utility bills

Have questions about the Postal Consent Form? Please contact us.