USPS Form 1583 in 2026: Complete Guide and Most Asked Questions

Struggling to get your virtual mailbox approved? In 2026, if you are setting up a virtual mailbox, you must complete USPS Form 1583. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching your own business, a founder launching a U.S. LLC from abroad, or an e-commerce entrepreneur scaling your reach, or someone else who just needs to set up a virtual mailbox for the USA location, USPS Form 1583 is the mandatory gatekeeper standing between you and your mail. 

Most people wonder about the necessity of this form, since it requires many things, and the process seems lengthy at first. The Form 1583 requires a complete identification process, notarization, and document processing. The federal requirements can feel bureaucratic and intimidating, but they exist for a clear reason: SECURITY. 

This guide cuts through the red tape, providing you with a step-by-step roadmap to completing, notarizing, and submitting your Form 1583 correctly, so you can stop worrying about compliance and get back to running your business. We have also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about USPS Form 1583 to help you understand it better. 

What is USPS Form 1583?

The USPS Form 1583, officially titled “Application for Delivery of Mail Through Agent,” is a document that approves a Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA) to receive mail on your behalf. By signing this Form 1583, you are legally allowing a third party (in this case, the CMRA) as your agent to collect the mail on your behalf. 

This is a legal and compulsory process that must be completed by anyone, residents or businesses, who wants to establish their Under U.S. Postal Code (39 CFR Part 111). The USPS is authorized to deliver mail only to the addressee or an authorized agent. Form 1583 provides that authorization.

The Role of the CMRA: Everything You Need to Know!

Many people just starting their businesses often wonder about CMRA. In simple words, CMRA works like a private post office, acting as a third party, or, you could say, a bridge between the physical mailbox and the digital world. Here are the reasons why the CMRA is beneficial for you.

1. The “Physical Address” Advantage

The reason why CMRA was introduced has a lot to do with the address. The biggest draw for a CMRA is the Real Street Address.

• The Problem: A USPS PO Box appears to be a PO Box (e.g., PO Box 123). Many banks, credit card companies, and government agencies (like the IRS or Secretary of State) won’t allow you to use a PO Box for official business registration.
• The CMRA Solution: The CMRA comes with an incredible solution that lets you use a professional suite address (e.g., 9700 Stirling Road, Suite 110, Hollywood, Florida 33024). This adds instant credibility to a brand and allows business owners to register their LLCs without using their home address.

2. The “Universal Receiver” Status

USPS only likes USPS. If you have a standard PO Box, FedEx and UPS generally cannot deliver to it.

In this case, the CMRA Benefit: Because it’s a staffed business location, a CMRA can sign for and accept packages from any carrier—DHL, Amazon, UPS, or a local courier. They act as a secure concierge for everything that arrives.

3. The Digital Revolution (Virtual Mailboxes)

The “modern” CMRA has moved into the cloud. Instead of you driving to a store to check a tiny metal box, the CMRA staff:

1. Receive your mail.
2. Scan the outside of the envelope.
3. Upload the image to an app.
4. Action: You click a button to have them Open & scan the contents (PDF), forward the physical item to you anywhere in the world, or shred/recycle it securely.

USPS Form 1583: A Complete Guide to Understanding the Form

Many people setting up their mailboxes often wonder whether the USPS Form 1583 is necessary. Someone who is new to the

Why Does the Form 1583 Exist?

Many wonder about the necessity of the USPS Form 1583. Many business owners view it as an annoying process, but its roots lie in the security domain. You can consider it an Anti-Fraud Shield, helping businesses avoid fraudulent activities and prevent potential crimes. 

Historically, anonymous mailboxes were used for:

1. Money Laundering: Setting up “shell” addresses to funnel illicit funds.
2. Identity Theft: Using a fake address to apply for credit cards or government benefits.
3. Mail Fraud: Running “get rich quick” schemes and disappearing once the checks arrive.

Thus, Form 1583 is prepared with proper documentation, address verification, and notarization to provide additional security. By requiring notarization and two forms of ID, the USPS creates a “paper trail” that links a real human being to a specific mailing address.

Part 2: Understand the Identification Requirements

Understanding the requirement for the USPS Form 1583 is important. One of the primary reasons Form 1583 is rejected is the submission of “unacceptable” identification details. The USPS is very specific about what counts as a valid ID. In this section, we will explain the identification requirements for form completion.

The “Primary ID” (Photo Identification) Requirements

The photo identification is very important; the USPS Form must include a clear photograph of the applicant. Here are the accepted documents for the process. 

• U.S. State-Issued Driver’s License: The gold standard for domestic applicants.
• U.S. State ID Card: For non-drivers.
• U.S. or Foreign Passport: Essential for international founders.
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): Must be valid and unexpired.
• U.S. Armed Forces ID: Including dependent cards.
• University ID: Specifically from an accredited U.S. university.
• NEXUS/SENTRI Cards: Trusted traveler cards issued by CBP.

What is NOT accepted: Social Security cards, birth certificates, or credit cards as identification.

The “Secondary ID” (Address Verification)

For the secondary ID, a photo is not required, but it must show your current residential address as listed on Form 1583. For this, the accepted documents include:

• Lease or Mortgage Agreement: Must be signed by both parties.
• Utility Bill: Water, gas, electric, or landline phone (cell phone bills are often rejected).
• Voter Registration Card: Shows your current residency.
• Vehicle Registration: A highly reliable form of address proof.
• Home or Vehicle Insurance Policy: Must clearly show the address and be currently in force.

Part 3: The Notarization Process

Now comes the most important part: Notarization. The Notarization is the “authentication” step required for the identification process. A notary public is a state-commissioned official who witnesses the signing process and verifies that the right person is signing. There are two ways to have the notarization done.

Traditional In-Person Notarization

If you are in the U.S., you can visit a notary’s office, or even go to a local bank, shipping store (like The UPS Store), or public library to have the document notarized.

• The Signing: You must sign the form in front of the notary public. Do not sign it at home; it will be rejected.
• The Seal: The notary public will apply an embossed or inked seal. If the seal is faint or overlaps with text, the USPS may reject the scan.

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

If you want to notarize the USPS Form 1583, you can choose the online notarization platform. This is the game-changer for digital nomads and international LLC owners looking to notarize their USPS Form online. Many people wonder about online notarization and whether it is reliable. However, online notarization is a secure way to notarize documents. 

Let’s see how the Online Notarization Platform Works for USPS Form 1583:

Step 1: Sign up at a reliable online notarization platform (like eNotary On Call)

Step 2: Upload your documents that need notarization

Step 3: Perform the Identification Process and answer a few Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) questions. Like the Credential Analysis, you hold your ID up to your webcam, and AI software checks for security features (holograms, microprinting).

Step 4: Join the live video-audio conference to connect with the online notary to perform the notarization. The notary will witness the signing of the document. 

Step 5: Download the Online Notarized Document. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the Form 1583

As we discussed, Form 1583 is an important form for setting up a virtual mailbox in the United States. Most people get confused during the process and are not fully aware of the step-by-step guide for correctly filling out the form.

While the form isn’t complex, many people still struggle to fill it out correctly because they don’t fully understand it. 

Section 1: Entering the Agency Information

This section is usually pre-filled by your mailbox provider. It includes their name and the address where your mail will be received. Ensure you double-check the address to avoid any issues.

Section 2: Applicant Name & Address

Enter your legal name and your current residential address. This address must match the address on your Secondary ID to avoid any issues.

Section 3: Business Information

If you are receiving mail for a business, you must enter these details

• Include the business name and address.
• List the type of business (e.g., E-commerce, Operations, Consulting).

Important Note: If the business has multiple members who will receive mail, each member may need to be listed or provide their own form. For example, if John and Maddy both need to receive mail for the same business, both individuals must be included on the form, or they must complete separate forms. 

Section 4: Identification Details

Write down the ID numbers, issuing authorities, and expiration dates for your two forms of ID. This section plays a crucial role in the identification and security process. 

Section 5: Signature

This is the main thing! Form 1583 must be notarized. The notarization of the USPS Form 1583 is necessary to ensure the process is protected. Thus, the signature plays an important role in the successful submission of the form.

USPS Form 1583: Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Form

You might have many questions about the USPS Form 1583. In this section, we will explain USPS Form 1583.

What is USPS Form 1583?

USPS Form 1583 is a legal document issued by the United States Postal Service that authorizes a third party to receive mail on someone’s behalf. This is a necessary form that individuals and businesses want their mail delivered to a Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA) rather than to their personal address. Examples of CMRAs include virtual mailbox services, private mailbox providers, and mail forwarding companies.

Why is USPS Form 1583 required?

USPS Form 1583 is required by federal law to authorize a CMRA (Commercial Mail Receiving Agency), like a virtual mailbox or private mailbox service, to collect or receive the mail on your behalf. This is necessary because it prevents any illegal activity by ensuring the USPS knows who is receiving mail at that address

Who needs to fill out USPS Form 1583?

Any individual or business wishing to establish a virtual mailbox must complete the form. This form is a requirement for someone who authorizes a third party to receive mail on their behalf.

What does Form 1583 authorize?

Form 1583 authorizes a third party to receive mail on someone’s behalf. This form helps the state follow the proper process for mail delivery and ensure the safety and security of the mailboxes.

Is USPS Form 1583 mandatory for virtual mailbox services?

Yes, USPS Form 1583 is mandatory for all virtual mailbox services in the United States. It is the set of legal requirements imposed by the state on individuals and businesses. 

Is USPS Form 1583 required for private mailbox services?

Yes, USPS Form 1583 is required for private mailbox services in the United States. When you sign up for a private mailbox service or a virtual mailing address, USPS regulations require identity verification to prevent fraud and unauthorized handling of mail. Completing USPS Form 1583 online or with a notary confirms that the mailbox provider has legal permission to accept your mail.

Can businesses use USPS Form 1583?

Yes, the business uses USPS Form 1583 when it needs third-party services or when multiple people need permission to receive or collect mail on the business’s behalf.  

Do I need to have the USPS Form 1583 notarized?

Yes, the USPS Form 1583 needs to be notarized. It is an important step that ensures the form is legally verified and has all the correct information. Notarization is an important step that ensures the form functions properly.

Where can I have the USPS Form 1583 notarized?

If you want to notarize the Form 1583, you can choose multiple ways, like the notary office, banks, public libraries, and an online notarization platform to notarize your documents. Nowadays, most people rely on online notarization platforms like eNotary On Call to notarize their documents. 

How much does notarization of Form 1583 cost?

The typical range for notarizing the USPS Form depends on the service; at the UPS Store, the costs of the notarization are slightly lower. On the other hand, if you are using an online notarization method, the costs of notarizing the document are a little higher. 

Additionally, most people don’t understand that online notarization is a better option for notarizing the form. Why? It allows users to avoid long travel, save time, and gives them the flexibility to notarize from anywhere in the world.

What are the various ways to notarize the USPS Form 1583?

You can notarize the Form 1583 in the following ways:

• By visiting a notary public
• Mobile Notary
• Online Notarization Platform

Notarization Method	Typical Cost Range	Where It Happens	Convenience Level	Best For
Bank Notary	Free – $15	At your local bank branch	Low–Medium	Bank customers who prefer in-person notarization
Shipping Stores (UPS, local notary offices)	$10 – $20	Physical stores or notary offices	Medium	People who want quick in-person service
Mobile Notary	$25 – $50+	Notary travels to your location	Medium–High	Businesses or individuals who want an at-home service
Online Notarization (Remote or Virtual Online Notary)	Starting around $25	Done via video call online	Very High	Users who want fast, remote notarization from anywhere

Can I notarize USPS Form 1583 online?

Yes, the USPS Form 1583 can be notarized online. There are many platforms that allow users to notarize their documents effortlessly. Many platforms use online notaries, such as eNotary On Call, to notarize their documents.

Whether you are living in the USA or starting your business in the states, you can use an online notarization platform to help with the notarization process. 

Does the Post Office have a Notary?

Many people get confused about the USPS Form 1583 and wonder whether the United States Postal Service provides notary services. Also, many post offices provide notary services, but not every post office in the United States offers them.

That’s why most people rely on online notarization platforms, like eNotary On Call, a highly rated online notary service that has been recommended for its quick notarization and incredible human support.

Which is the best online notarization platform to notarize the USPS Form 1583?

The Form 1583 can be easily notarized online. If you are looking for the best online notary platform to notarize your form, eNotary On Call is the right choice. The platform offers 24/7 online notarization services, with human support available at every step. The platform is built with smart AI technology that helps in seamless identify verification

Something You Should Know: eNotary On Call is the leading online notarization platform that helps you connect with a licensed online notary in a few seconds. The platform is officially recognized by the Miami Dolphins as a small business partner. 

How many times does it take to complete the online notarization of USPS Form 1583?

Using an online notarization platform offers many benefits, including speed and flexibility. If you are notarizing the USPS Form 1583 online, you can connect users with licensed notaries in seconds, helping them notarize documents with a digital signature and notary seal in no time. 

How to Notarize the USPS Form 1583 online?

To notarize a USPS Form online, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Find a trusted online notarization platform

Finding the best online notarization platform for document notarization is challenging. That’s why most people rely on the eNotary On Call, a platform that helps users get their documents notarized online in no time.  

Step 2: Log in to the Platform  

Navigate to the Log in button. Start by filling in your details in the box. The platform basically asks for the email address to create the account. You can also log in with your Google account to create your eNotary On Call account. 

Step 3: Upload Your Document 

The next step is to upload your documents that need notarization. Remember that the document to be notarized is not signed beforehand. Most of the people signed the document, which the notary later rejected. Online notarization is the process by which the notary ensures that the document is signed by the correct person. Thus, ensure the document (USPS Form 1583) is not presigned. 

Step 4: ID Verification and KBA Authentication 

Next, you need to insert your government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, State ID card, passport, or other ID card, for ID Verification. Once the ID is verified, you need to answer a few questions for the Knowledge-Based Authentication. This is one of the important steps in verifying the signer’s identity. Once this is completed, you will move to the next step.

Step 5: Meet the Licensed Online Notary Public 

Once you complete the ID verification, it is time to connect with the licensed notary public. The complete process is conducted in a secure environment, with the signer and the notary public meeting online via secure audio-video conferencing. The session is being recorded for security and legal reasons. 

During the live audio-video conference, the Notary Public will verify the signer’s identity. He/She will also go through the document that needs to be notarized. The Notary Public ensures that the signer understands the document before proceeding with the notarization. 

Then the Notary Public will move to sign the document. The document is officially signed using a digital signature and is sealed by the notary. 

Do you know? eNotary On Call is one of the leading online notarization platfrom that helps signers to connect with the commissioned online notary public within few seconds.

Step 6: Download the Notarized Documents

Now, it is time to download the notarized document. You can download the document from the platform instantly.

Note: This complete process is super easy and can save you time, allowing you to notarize your documents instantly. One of the best things about online notarization platforms is that they give you the opportunity to notarize documents from anywhere in the world. 

How much does it cost to notarize the USPS Form 1583 Online?

The cost to notarize the USPS Form 1583 online starts at $25. However, the final price can vary depending on the online notary service provider, the number of signers, and any additional verification requirements. Make sure to check these things before starting the notarization.

How can a non-U.S. citizen and non-resident complete USPS Form 1583?

A non-U.S. citizen and non-resident can still complete USPS Form 1583. However, there are some additional details that need to be filled in by them to verify identity and authorize a mail-receiving service. Here’s how the process typically works:

1.  Fill Out the Required Sections of the Form

Start by filling in the basic information requested on the form, including:

• Your full legal name
• Home address (your address in your home country)
• The address of the Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA) or virtual mailbox provider you are authorizing
• Your contact details, such as email and phone number

2. Provide Two Valid Forms of Identification

The USPS requires two forms of ID to verify your identity. If you are a non-U.S. citizen or resident, here are the commonly accepted documents:

Primary ID (photo ID):

• Passport (most preferred for international applicants)
• Foreign driver’s license
• National identity card

Secondary ID (address verification):

• Credit card or debit card
• Foreign driver’s license
• Utility bill or bank statement showing your address
• Lease or property document

Both IDs must be valid and clearly show your name to verify your identity and correct name.

3. Notarize the Form 1583

If you are outside the United States, the form must be notarized before submission. You can do this in two ways:

• Visit a local notary in your country, or
• Use a remote online notarization service to complete the process through a secure video session.

During notarization, the notary verifies your identity and witnesses your signature on the form.

4. Submit the Form to Your Mail Provider

Once notarized, send the completed form, along with copies of your identification documents, to the mail-forwarding or virtual mailbox provider you plan to use. They will submit it to USPS and activate your mailbox once everything is verified.

5. Wait for Approval

After verification, your mail provider can begin receiving mail on your behalf at the authorized address.

Can I notarize Form 1583 in person?

Yes, you can notarize the USPS Form 1583 in person. Generally, people choose banks, libraries, The UPS Store, and notary offices to have their documents notarized in person.

Can a bank notarize Form 1583?

Yes, banks can notarize the Form 1583 online.

Can I use a passport as identification for USPS Form 1583?

Yes, for notarization, a passport is one of the common IDs that is used for the identification process

Can a UPS Store notarize Form 1583?

Yes, the UPS Store can notarize the Form 1583. The UPS stores offer notary services to the customer who want to notarize documents.

Can a mobile notary notarize Form 1583?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize the documents, including Form 1583. 

Does every business owner need to sign Form 1583?

No, not every business owner needs to sign the form. Anyone who wants to build their digital presence in the States or grant mail-receiving rights to the CMRA can fill out the form. 

Conclusion

USPS Form 1583 is a document issued by the United States Postal Service that allows a third party to receive mail on someone’s behalf. This form is generally filled out by the individual or business that wants their mail handled by the CMRA, such as through a virtual mailbox, mail forwarding companies, or other services. 

One important thing when filling out the USPS Form 1583 is the notarization process. The Form 1583 needs to be notarized by the applicant. Now, most people have trouble getting the form notarized. Thus, eNotary On Call is there to help you guide it.