Many residents receive their daily news and catalog flyers through Informed Delivery, a service from the United States Postal Service that digitizes mail before it arrives. While convenient for some, others find the constant notifications intrusive, unnecessary, or even a privacy concern. If you are looking for how to stop Informed Delivery, the process is straightforward and entirely free, requiring only a few minutes of your time. This guide walks you through the official methods to manage or completely opt out of this digital mail preview service.
Understanding Informed Delivery and Why You Might Want to Opt Out
Before learning how to stop Informed Delivery, it helps to understand what it is and why you might want to disable it. The service scans mail pieces like letters and flats, takes a grayscale image, and then emails a digital preview to you. The primary purpose is to provide convenience, but it also serves as a marketing tool for retailers and advertisers who use colorful images to lure consumers. If you prefer physical privacy, find the images distracting, or simply do not use the preview feature, opting out is a valid choice for reducing digital clutter.
Method 1: Opt Out Through the Official USPS Website
The most direct method for how to stop Informed Delivery is via the USPS.com website, which takes you straight to the management portal. This process verifies your identity and allows you to toggle the service on or off with a few clicks. Because this method directly accesses the USPS database, it is the most immediate way to adjust your settings without waiting for physical changes to take effect.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Visit the official Informed Delivery registration page on USPS.com.
Enter your ZIP code and house number to locate your account.
Log in using the temporary password sent to your physical mailbox or via text message.
Once logged in, navigate to the "Manage Your Account" section.
Select the option to "Opt Out" of Informed Delivery.
Confirm the change to finalize the request.
Method 2: Using the Informed Delivery Mobile Application
If you prefer managing your accounts from your smartphone, the official Informed Delivery app offers the same functionality as the website. This method is ideal for users who are already comfortable with the app ecosystem and want to make changes while on the go. The app syncs with your USPS account, ensuring that the instructions for how to stop Informed Delivery remain consistent across platforms.
App Management Steps
Download the "Informed Delivery" app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Log in using the same credentials required for the website portal.
Tap on the profile or settings icon within the app.
Look for the "Notification Settings" or "Account Preferences" option.
Toggle off the "Informed Delivery" notifications or select "Deactivate Account."
Save your preferences to complete the process.
Troubleshooting Common Issues and Verification Delays
When exploring how to stop Informed Delivery, you might encounter minor hurdles, such as not receiving the temporary password or delays in the opt-out process. The USPS handles high volumes of mail daily, and digital systems can sometimes experience lag. If the link expires or you do not hear back immediately, do not panic; these delays are usually temporary and do not indicate a failure in your request.
What to Do If You Face Issues
Check your spam or junk email folder for the USPS verification email.
Ensure you are entering the correct ZIP code and house number associated with your account.
Request a new temporary password if the link expires before use.
Contact USPS customer support if the issue persists after 48 hours.
Keep a record of your request or confirmation number for reference.
