certified mail

Uninsured first-class mail for which proof of delivery is obtained.

Option offered by the U.S. Postal Service that provides the mailer with a receipt and requires the destination post office to record delivery of the piece. This service is available at a surcharge for domestic First-Class mail only. Certified mail is too expensive for use in direct mail, but is commonly used when mailing something valuable to assure the mailer it was delivered. For an additional fee, the receipt will show the signature of the person who received the piece and the receipt date. For another fee, the address of delivery will also be shown, along with the signature and date.

Service of the U.S. Postal Service, available at extra cost, that provides proof of mailing and delivery for any first-class mail. A sender may request a return receipt or restricted delivery upon paying a supplementary fee. Insurance is not available. See also Registered Mail.