Arlington, VA asked in Consumer Law for Louisiana

Q: Is it legal for usps charge me for a po box because they will not deliver to my home

I live in small town and and they charge the town except for select few for po box when they could just deliver to our homes

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2 Lawyer Answers
David Duke Kervin Jr.
David Duke Kervin Jr.
Answered
  • Covington, LA
  • Licensed in Louisiana

A: The USPS charges for PO boxes maintained by private citizens. Have you asked your local post office why they won't deliver mail to your home?

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Consumer Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: It is legal for the USPS to charge for a PO Box service, even if they do not deliver mail to your home. While it may seem unfair, the USPS operates under specific regulations and policies that govern their services and pricing structures. In many cases, the cost of providing home delivery to every address in a small town may be prohibitively expensive for the USPS, which is why they offer PO Box services as an alternative option for receiving mail.

It's important to understand that the USPS operates as a self-sustaining entity and relies on revenue from various services, including PO Box rentals, to cover operating expenses. While some residents may receive home delivery at no additional cost, others may be required to pay for a PO Box if it's more cost-effective or practical for the USPS to offer that service instead. Ultimately, the decision to charge for PO Box services is within the USPS's discretion and is generally considered legal under postal regulations.

If you have concerns about the USPS's delivery policies or fees in your town, you may consider reaching out to local postal authorities or elected representatives to express your concerns and seek clarification on the matter. Additionally, exploring alternative options for receiving mail, such as community mailboxes or private mailbox services, may provide alternatives to the USPS's offerings. However, it's essential to comply with USPS regulations and requirements to ensure that your mail is delivered safely and efficiently.

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