What is the USPS Form 1583? And why does it need to be notarized?


Written by Jose Zefu Kimpalou (Notary Public)


Published on 23 October 2023 12:00

What is the USPS Form 1583?

The United States Postal Service Form 1583, or Application for Delivery of Mail Through Agent, is a form that authorizes a Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA) to receive and handle mail on a customer's behalf. This is required for anyone who wants to rent a Private Mailbox (PMB), like a virtual mailbox. The USPS keeps the form on file to track the identity of those who use an address if a bad actor uses it for illegal purposes.

CMRAs are businesses that provide mail receiving and forwarding services. They typically offer a variety of services, such as mail scanning, package pickup and delivery, and document shredding. CMRAs are regulated by the USPS, and they must comply with all applicable postal rules and regulations.

To complete Form 1583, you will need to provide the following information:

  • Your name and address
  • The name and address of the CMRA
  • The type of mailbox you are renting (e.g., PMB, virtual mailbox)
  • Your signature
  • The signature of a notary public

Once you have completed the form, you will need to submit it to the CMRA. The CMRA will then submit the form to the USPS for processing. Once the form has been processed, you will be able to start using your private mail box.

Here are some reasons why you might want to use a CMRA:

  • You travel frequently and need a reliable place to receive your mail.
  • You have a business and need a separate mailing address from your home address.
  • You want to protect your privacy and keep your home address confidential.
  • You need help managing your mail and packages.

If you are considering using a CMRA, be sure to research different companies and choose one that is reputable and offers the services you need.

Why does it need to be notarized?

The USPS requires the PS-1583 form to be notarized to help prevent mail fraud. By notarizing the form, you are affirming that you are the person who is authorizing the CMRA to receive your mail. This helps to ensure that only authorized individuals have access to your mail.

Here are some of the reasons why the USPS requires notarization for the PS-1583 form:

  • To protect against identity theft and mail fraud.
  • To ensure that only authorized individuals have access to your mail.
  • To deter people from using CMRAs to receive mail for illegal activities.
  • To comply with federal and state laws.

To notarize a PS-1583 form, you will need to go to a notary public and sign the form in their presence. The notary public will then verify your identity and sign and stamp the form.

Once you have notarized the PS-1583 form, you can send it to the CMRA that you have chosen. The CMRA will then be able to receive mail on your behalf and forward it to you at your desired address.