How to Get a PO Box
(or Virtual Mailbox)

Don’t want to share your address? No problem.

Yellow vintage mailbox mounted on a stone wall.

When you’re joining our penpal community, you may not want to share your home address. A PO Box or virtual mailbox is a great way to keep your privacy while still enjoying the joy of handwritten letters. There are a few simple options for you:

Option 1: Local USPS PO Box

You can visit your nearest post office and rent a traditional PO Box. Sizes and prices vary by location, but here’s a general idea. Small boxes (good for letters only) can start around $4–$6 per month.

You’ll need two forms of ID and a completed USPS application (PS Form 1093). Once approved, you’ll get a key and your new mailing address.

Option 2: Virtual Mailbox (Recommended)

A virtual mailbox works like a PO Box, but with added convenience. You’ll get a real street address (not just a PO Box number), and your mail can be scanned, forwarded, or even opened and digitized for you.

This is especially handy if you travel, move often, or just prefer not to drive to the post
office.

Our recommendation: Anytime Mailbox

Plans usually start around $5–$9 per month for a basic address.
More advanced plans with unlimited scans and forwarding options can range from
$15–$25 per month.
You can choose from addresses all over the U.S. (and even internationally).

Sign up for Anytime Mailbox here

👉 Please note: this article may contain affiliate links, which means if you sign up through our link, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the Penpal Society and keeps our projects running strong.

In a world that moves faster every day, The Penpal Society is your pause button, your cozy corner where words matter, and friendships are written one letter at a time.

Here, you’ll rediscover the joy of connection through handwritten notes and the magic of exchanging stories with someone who truly listens.

#PenpalLife #HandwrittenLetters #SlowConnection #FriendshipAcrossBorders #WellnessThroughWriting

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