Easy Mail | LetterStream Blog

How to Add a Return Envelope When Creating a Job

Look, not every mail-related question is a high-stakes compliance issue. Sometimes it’s just: “Hey… how do I add a return envelope to this thing?”

And, we get it. If you haven’t done it before, this stuff can feel weirdly tricky. But here’s the good news: it’s incredibly easy—and we made a video to walk you through it, just in case clicking buttons under pressure isn’t your thing.

Watch below to see a walk-through of how to add a return envelope or keep reading to get the quick breakdown:

So, if you’re sending out statements, invoices, ballots, or anything else where you actually want a response (like, in the mail, with a stamp and everything), you’ll want to include a return envelope.

Let’s break it down.

What’s a Return Envelope and Why Does It Matter?

A return envelope is exactly what it sounds like: a second envelope, tucked inside your mailing, that your recipient can use to mail something back to you.

They open your letter
They see the return envelope
They use it
Everyone wins

This is especially common for:

Payments (yep, checks are still a thing)
Forms and ballots
Surveys and reply cards

If you don’t include one, your return rate drops. People are busy, and no one wants to hunt down an envelope like it’s 1997, you know? In fact, you can’t find just one and no one wants to buy a whole pack of envelopes either. So, best case scenario is to include one yourself for your customers.

How to Add a Return Envelope to Your Mailing

Ready? It’s literally one step. (Told you it was easy.)

When setting up your job online, when you get to the inserts page, simply click on the blue “Add An Envelope” button and select with #9 you want to choose.

Boom. Done.

The return envelope will be inserted automatically along with your letter or statement. No extra work. No extra clicks. It’s already built into the workflow.

Still unsure? Don’t forget we made a YouTube video that shows you how to add a #9 return envelope.
Because sometimes it’s just easier to see it than read about it.

🎥 Watch: How to Add a Return Envelope: https://www.letterstream.com/redir?utm_source=video&utm_medium=emailvideo&utm_campaign=emailvideo&utm_id=email&link=https://www.youtube.com/@LetterStream

A Few Bonus Tips

Want it pre-addressed? No problem.
Need a windowed return envelope? That’s an option.
Need a #8 ballot or even a 6 3/4 return envelope? Both are options too.

We’ve thought through the logistics so you don’t have to.

Make It Easy for Them to Respond

If you want a reply, make replying easy. It’s that simple.

Adding a return envelope removes friction, increases response rates, and gives your mail that “oh wow, they actually thought this through” energy.

We’re not saying it’ll make your recipients love you more—but… actually, yeah, it might.

If you’re not already a customer, you can create a free account here and if you’ve used us before simply log in here to get your mailing our quickly and easily with or without a return envelope included.

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so, here.

How Your HOA Mail Process Could Actually Hurt Your Community

I’ve seen it too many times, HOAs doing their mailings in-house, and it’s hurting communities.

When we first started working with HOAs at LetterStream, I kept seeing the same thing over and over: Good boards. Hardworking community managers. Total chaos when it came to mailing important documents.

Maybe you’ve lived it, too—ballots that didn’t reach homeowners. Certified letters sent too late to meet compliance rules. Financial disclosures stuck on someone’s desk while the clock kept ticking.

It doesn’t seem like a huge deal at first. But every missed notice chips away at homeowner trust. Every late mailing risks compliance headaches. Every misstep invites unnecessary drama—and I don’t think any of us need more of that in community management.

Mailing isn’t just paperwork. It’s one of the few official ways your board communicates with your homeowners. When the mail goes wrong, it makes everything else harder.

And honestly? I think a lot of communities deserve better.

The Problem Isn’t the People—It’s the Process

In my experience, it’s never about people not caring.
It’s about asking small teams to manage too many manual steps: printing, folding, stuffing, labeling, mailing, tracking. Every one of those steps is a chance for something to get missed.

And let’s be real—HOA offices weren’t built to be full-service mailrooms.

That’s why we built LetterStream to help HOAs send mail online—real, trackable mail—without the piles of paper, the runs to the post office, and the constant worry about what fell through the cracks.

Instead of burning out your team, you can just upload your files, pick your mailing options, and get on with the work you actually want to be doing.

Because running a community is hard enough without the mailing disasters.

A Better Mailing Process = A Stronger Community

When your HOA mailing runs smoothly, a few things happen:

Homeowners trust that important information will reach them.
Elections feel clean and legitimate.
Legal compliance becomes a whole lot less stressful.
Your board looks organized and professional—and that matters.

It’s not flashy. It’s not exciting. But consistent, reliable mail builds a stronger, healthier community. Period.

What LetterStream Brings to the Table for HOAs

We didn’t build LetterStream for perfect-world HOAs with unlimited budgets and full back-office staff.
We built it for the real world—the one where you need to get 500 meeting notices out this week, track 75 certified violation letters, and maybe handle an election or two… all without dropping the ball.

Here’s what you can expect when you use our platform:

First-Class Mail, Certified Mail, FedEx 2Day, postcards and other business mailing options—all handled online.
No minimums—whether you’re sending one notice or a thousand.
Next-business-day processing to help you stay ahead of deadlines.
Return envelopes and custom options for elections and billing packets.
Detailed tracking and full reporting, right in your account—no digging through piles of green cards.
A simple, clean platform that doesn’t require hours of training to figure out.

It’s professional mailing, built for the realities of HOA management—not for some fantasy land where mailing days never get hectic.

Heading to CAI? Let’s Talk About It

If you’re coming to the CAI National Conference in Orlando, May 7–10, we’ll be there too at Booth 333.

No big sales pitch, just real conversations about how to make HOA mailings easier, cleaner, and way less stressful.

If you’ve ever wished for an easier way to handle notices, ballots, and Certified Mail, come find us. We’ll show you how it’s done. Or if you want to get a head start? You can send HOA mail online today with LetterStream.

HOA Made Easy – Visit Us At The CAI National Show

We know your CAI schedule is already filling up with sessions, meetups, and maybe even a Disney detour (we won’t judge). But before the madness begins, here’s your reminder that HOA mailing doesn’t have to be the slow, painful, paper-cut-filled task it’s always been.

The countdown is on! CAI’s 2025 Annual Conference is just around the corner (May 7th–May 10th), and LetterStream is officially in preparation and packing mode. If you’re heading to Orlando, make sure Booth 333 is on your must-visit list.

LetterStream at CAI National Show
May 7th – May 10th
Orlando, Florida
Booth #333

You’ve Got Mail To Send

If you’re still printing notices, stuffing envelopes, and sprinting to the Post Office before 5pm, let’s talk. Because honestly? You don’t have time for that. We built LetterStream so you can send your HOA mail online—without needing a dedicated mailroom (or a spare afternoon).

Certified Mail with tracking? Easy.
First-Class letters and postcards? You bet.
FedEx 2Day from your laptop?
Yes, really. Poscards? We even offer two sizes!

We’ve got solutions for property managers, board members, and anyone who’s ever asked, “Did someone remember to mail that?”

What Kind of HOA Mail Are We Talking About?

All the important stuff. You know—the things that have to get out, on time (not waiting for someone to go to the Post Office or a vendor to keep them in the queue for days or weeks before sending), and with proof they were sent. We help with:

Annual meeting notices (complete with proxy ballots and agendas)
Statements
Violation letters (with tracking, of course, and an option for an electronic signature)
Financial disclosures
Postcards and community updates
Welcome packets for new homeowners
Ballots for elections
Coupon sheets and booklets

If it needs to be mailed and it affects your community, we’ve probably seen it—and send it.

Booth 333: Where Your Mail Problems Go to Disappear

We’re bringing live demos, real mail samples, and real people who can answer your questions (the weirdly specific ones too—we’ve heard it all). Got compliance questions? Curious about our integrations, yes we have an API that connect to CINC and other HOA software? Want to know how long it actually takes to send 3,000 violation notices? We’ve got you.

And yes, there will be ribbons again for our awesome customers who love to showcase that they love LetterStream!

I love LetterStream ribbon at the CAI show.

Who Should Swing By?

HOA managers with too much on their plate
Board members looking for better ways to get mail out fast
People who hate printers (our kind of people)
Anyone who’s ever said “Ugh time for another mailing to be done and sent”

Even if you’ve chatted with us before, stop by! We’re always updating our tools and adding new features—and if you’ve never used us? It’s time!

See You in Orlando!

Come say hey! at Booth 333 during CAI’s 2025 Annual Conference in Orlando. Whether you want to talk bulk HOA mail, Certified Mail tracking, or just need a break between breakout sessions, we’ll be there.

Let’s finally make mailing the easiest thing on your to-do list.

How to Avoid Common Online Mailing Mistakes

Avoiding common mistakes when mailing online isn’t just about saving face—it’s about saving time, money, and possibly your sanity. Whether you’re sending one letter or a thousand, the truth is: mailing online sounds foolproof… until you hit send and realize you just mailed 200 letters to a zip code that doesn’t exist. Oops!

We’ve seen it all. So we figured we’d save you from the usual slip-ups and help you mail smarter, not harder.

The Classic: “Wait, That’s Not the Right Address”

This one tops the list every single time. The address looked right… until it was sent back faster than your coffee hit this morning’s inbox.

Here’s the thing: mailing platforms aren’t mind readers. If the address is off, the mail won’t get there. (And no, USPS can’t deliver based on “well it’s close enough.”)

LetterStream tip: Always double-check your spreadsheet before uploading. Clean columns. No extra commas. Full zip codes. You’d be surprised how many people forget apartment numbers—like the mail is supposed to guess the unit.

Thinking “Online Mail” Means Instant Delivery

Let’s just clear this one up: you’re not sending email. You’re sending real, physical mail—paper, envelope, postage stamp, the whole deal. It still has to go through printers, folders, inserters, and a quick ride with USPS or FedEx.

This means that clicking “send” is just step one. Give it a little breathing room.

LetterStream tip: Build in a day or two for processing—especially for time-sensitive stuff like legal notices or HOA violations. Need tracking or signatures? Certified Mail or FedEx 2Day might be the better route.

Uploading a Glitchy File and Hoping for the Best

Let’s talk about your letter file. Is it clean? Do the addresses line up in the window? Did you accidentally attach last month’s version? These are things to keep in mind and that can be a make or break for your business-critical mail.

LetterStream tip: Before uploading, preview the proof. That little preview button? It’s your best friend. Use it. We promise, future-you will thank you when you don’t accidentally send a test letter to your boss.

Picking the Wrong Postage

This one’s sneaky. You’re in a rush, and without thinking, you pick First-Class Mail when you really needed Certified Mail with an Electronic Return Receipt signature. Or you go all-in with Marketing Mail for your billing statements (spoiler: not a good idea).

Quick breakdown:

First-Class: Fast and reliable for statements, notices, invoices.
Certified Mail: Great when you need a paper trail.
FedEx 2Day: Ideal when timing is critical.
Marketing Mail: For big batches that aren’t urgent.

Formatting Your Data Like a Puzzle

Merged cells, hidden columns, emoji in the address field—oh my. The more “creative” your spreadsheet is, the more likely something will go sideways.

LetterStream tip: Stick to the basics. Name, street, city, state, zip. No formulas. No filters. No random unicorn emojis (no matter how cute they may be). 🦄

And definitely no mixing home and work addresses in the same field. Yes, we’ve seen it.

Skipping the Proof (Again)

We get it—you’re busy. But you know what’s really time-consuming? Fixing a batch of mail after it’s been sent.

LetterStream tip: Pause. Breathe. Preview. Even if you’ve sent the same letter a dozen times before, it takes just a second to catch that typo in the footer or the page that broke in the middle of your sentence.

Waiting Until the Last Possible Minute

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if your “urgent” letter gets submitted at 4:59 PM expecting same-day miracles… you’re cutting it close. Plan ahead, always.

LetterStream tip: Get it in early. And if it’s truly an emergency, check out expedited options. We’re fast—but we’re not magic (well, not every time).

Wrap-Up: Mail Online Like a Legend

Mailing online should feel easy—because it is, once you dodge the common traps. Check your addresses, preview your work, choose the right postage, and keep your data clean. (Honestly, most of these are just good life advice, too.)

And if you’re looking for a mailing partner that actually helps you avoid these issues—not one that leaves you staring at a support portal at midnight—LetterStream is here for it.

We make mailing online simple, reliable, and just a little more fun than you’d expect.

How to Get Your Invoices and Billing Statements Out Fast

You’ve done the hard part—you generated the invoice, reviewed the numbers, maybe even double-checked the due date. Gold star. But if it’s still sitting on a desk waiting to be printed, folded, and mailed? That money you’re owed is just… chilling, sitting there.

Let’s not pretend the envelope stuffers of the world are running ahead of schedule. If you want your payments to show up on time, your invoices and billing statements need to leave the building fast. Like same-day fast. And unless your business model includes licking envelopes and dodging paper cuts, you might want to rethink the way you’re sending your mail.

The Mailroom Bottleneck (a.k.a. The Silent Payment Killer)

Here’s what happens more often than we’d like to admit: an invoice gets finalized, then it disappears into the magical land of internal processes—where it sits in a queue behind 37 other “urgent” jobs. By the time it’s printed, stuffed, and dropped in the mailbox, you’ve missed your customer’s payment cycle, your team’s sending awkward follow-ups, and the cash flow dashboard is giving you side-eye.

It’s not about when the invoice was created—it’s about when it actually hits the mail.

And if you’re relying on someone to “get to it when they can,” that’s not a process. That’s a gamble.

Fast Mail = Fast(er) Payments

Let’s be real: snail mail is already doing its best and it’s not always great in terms of timing. Don’t make things worse by dragging your feet on the front end. When you send invoices and billing statements fast—like same-day or next-day fast—you increase your chances of:

Landing inside your customer’s check-run window
Getting paid without having to follow up three times
Looking like the organized, on-top-of-it business you are

Plus, it helps your customers stay on track too. Nobody likes getting a bill late and then feeling like they’re the one behind.

You Could Be Sending Mail Online… But You’re Still Folding Paper?

There’s something charming about a hand-stuffed envelope. But charming doesn’t pay the bills. If your team is spending hours printing and mailing statements, they’re not doing the things that actually grow your business.

This is why automated mailing solutions exist. You upload a file. They handle everything else. Printing, folding, inserting, postage, mailing—done. Whether it’s First-Class letters, Certified Mail, or even FedEx 2Day, it’s out the door without you lifting a finger.

And no, you don’t need to install anything.

Who Actually Needs Fast Mailing Services? (Spoiler: Probably You)

Let’s play a quick round of “Is this your business?”:

You send billing statements, invoices, or official notices on a regular basis?
You’ve got clients who still expect (or require) physical mail?
You’ve had at least one “Did we send that?” moment this year?
You’re tired of your billing cycle being held hostage by your printer?

If you said yes to even one, congrats—you’re exactly who fast print and mail services were made for.

And if you work in one of these industries, it’s pretty much a no-brainer:

Accounting and finance
HOAs and property management
Medical billing departments
Law firms and legal services
Utility companies
Local governments and special districts
Real estate
3rd Party Administrators
Education
Construction
Insurance

These are all real businesses with real mail that still needs to move—fast.

From PDF to Post Office Without the Drama

Imagine uploading a PDF and being done. That’s it. Your job’s in the queue, your mail’s going out within 2 business days at the latest, and your team is suddenly not buried in envelopes.

Imagine having:

A secure portal to upload your files
Mailing options that actually fit your needs
Real-time tracking so you know it’s been handled with Certified Mail tracking or FedEx 2Day tracking
One less thing clogging your calendar

Not to spoil it but you can absolutely have all of this when you use us…just saying.

Final Mail Thoughts

Getting invoices and billing statements out fast might not be the flashiest part of running a business, but it sure makes everything else run smoother. Your clients get their documents. Your payments show up when they should. And your staff stops hiding when the words “mail run” come up.

Want to stop sweating your outgoing mail? Visit us online and see how easy it is to send invoices online without the hassle, the mess, or the paper cuts.

How to Send Your First Letter With LetterStream

If you’re new to LetterStream, welcome! You’re about to discover just how easy it is to send mail online, even high-volume mailings—without the hassle of printers, envelopes, or Post Office visits. Whether you’re sending HOA violation notices, legal documents, invoices, or customer statements, LetterStream makes mailing fast, efficient, and stress-free.

📌 Watch the Video Tutorial Below!
Sending Your First Letter with LetterStream

And keep reading if you want the breakdown of how to send your first letter through your LetterStream account, from start to finish.

Step 1: Log Into Your LetterStream Account

First things first—log into your LetterStream account. If you don’t have an account yet, signing up is quick and simple. Once inside, you’ll see your dashboard, where you can manage your mailings, view job history, and track sent letters.

Step 2: Start a New Mailing Job

To send your first letter, click “Create a New Job.” This is where you’ll set up the details for your mailing.

Choose the type of mail you’re sending (First-Class Mail, Certified Mail, or FedEx 2Day®).
Select single or multiple recipients—you can send one letter or a bulk mailing in the same job.
Upload your PDF file containing the letter(s) you want to send or your CSV file of contacts.

Pro Tip: Your document should be properly formatted with the recipient’s address visible in the correct windowed-envelope position. Try our PDF PreFlight tool to make sure your document is formatted correctly.

Step 3: Review Your Document & Addressing

Once your PDF or CSV file is uploaded, LetterStream’s online mailing service will automatically check for proper formatting. You’ll be able to preview your letter and make sure everything looks good before sending.

Step 4: Choose Printing & Mailing Options

Now, it’s time to customize your mailing:

Paper Type: Standard white or specialty paper
Envelope Style: Single-window, double-window, or custom envelopes

Step 5: Final Review & Checkout

Before submitting, review the details:

Preview your letter one last time
Confirm addresses and recipients
Verify your mailing preferences

Once everything looks good, proceed to checkout, where you can select your payment method and submit your mailing job.

Step 6: Tracking & Confirmation

If you choose Certified Mail, after sending, you can track the status of your mailing in your LetterStream dashboard. You’ll receive updates on when it’s printed, mailed, and delivered—giving you peace of mind that your letter is on its way.

Need to send multiple notices? LetterStream also specializes in bulk mailing solutions for HOAs, law firms, and businesses.

And That’s It! 🎉

You’ve successfully sent your first letter through LetterStream’s online mailing service—without ever stepping foot in a Post Office. Whether you’re managing HOA mailings, legal notices, invoices, or critical business mail, LetterStream takes care of the heavy lifting so you can focus on what matters most.

Ready to send your next letter? Log in and get started today! And if you have any questions check out our Chat Help located in the right-hand corner of our website, which provides help 24/7.

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so, here.

Now That You Use LetterStream, You Can Actually Take a Real Break (Yes, Really!)

Now that you use LetterStream, you can actually take a break…like a real break. We’re talking no envelopes, no stamps, no printer meltdowns. Just you, a moment of peace, and maybe even a latte you didn’t have to reheat three times.

Because when someone else takes the mailing chaos off your plate—like a reliable partner offering online printing and mailing services—guess what you get back? Time. Sanity. And maybe a full lunch hour…for once.

Goodbye Mailroom. Hello Midday Me-Time.

Let’s be honest: manually managing business-critical mail is not the glamorous part of your job. (Unless your dream was always to master the art of paper jams.) Between printing, folding, stuffing, labeling, and trying to find that one missing address, and taking a tip to the Post Office to drop it all off, your to-do list can start to look like a scavenger hunt.

But now that you’re using LetterStream’s business mailing solutions, you’re not in the mailroom anymore. You’re in control. You upload your PDF files and hit send. We handle everything else. It’s basically magic—without the wand.

**Let’s Talk About All the Things You’re Not Doing Anymore**

Since you’ve passed off your mailing tasks to an outsourced mail service you can trust, here’s a short list of things you no longer have to stress about:

Running out of toner (again)
Fighting with the folding machine (you know the one)
Spending your lunch hour at the Post Office (fun!)
Stamping envelopes until your wrist gives out
Wondering if your mailing actually got there

All of that? Gone. Poof. Out of your hands. Thanks to LetterStream’s bulk mail services, it’s not just a time-saver—it’s a mood boost.

So, What Do You Do With All This Free Time?

Ah, the possibilities.

There are so many things you can do with your free time now. You could actually take a full lunch break. You could go for a walk that’s not just to cry behind the building. You could sip coffee while it’s still hot. Or hey—maybe you use that time to think big, plan a new project, or simply not think at all.

And here’s a fun fact from the productivity gurus: real breaks help your brain recharge, improve focus, and make you better at your job. So technically, you’re still being productive… just enjoying it a lot more from your new view.

If you’re still stuck manually sending mail, it’s time to rethink the strategy. When you send mail online through a professional service like LetterStream, you’re not just improving efficiency—you’re reclaiming your day.

Everyone’s Winning (Especially You)

Your mail is going out on time. Your boss is impressed. Your customers are getting their statements, invoices, or notices like clockwork. And you? You’re no longer buried under a pile of paper cuts and postage questions.

We’d call that a win.

Take Five, Take Ten—Take the Break You Deserve

Now that you use LetterStream, the only thing you should be folding is a napkin at lunch. The busywork? It’s ours now. Your time? It’s yours again.

How to Make Sending HOA Mail Easier

Managing an HOA means juggling homeowners association dues, violation notices, community updates, and board elections—all requiring reliable communication. But sending mail the traditional way can be time-consuming and costly. That’s where online mailing platforms like LetterStream come in.

When using LetterStream, HOAs can easily send mail online, whether it’s a homeowners association annual meeting agenda, proxy ballots, or Certified Mail for violation letters. Our online platform automates the entire process, eliminating the need for printing, stuffing, and mailing letters yourself. Plus, we have an API option that seamlessly integrates with HOA management software companies like CINC, making it even easier.

The Struggles of Traditional HOA Mail

Handling HOA mail manually presents major challenges including:

High costs – Postage, paper, and labor expenses add up.
Time-consuming – Printing and mailing homeowners association dues notices and other documents takes valuable time.
Compliance concerns – Late or lost mail can create legal and financial issues.
Lack of tracking – HOAs need proof that critical letters were sent and received.

A mailing service like LetterStream solves these problems with automation, tracking, and seamless integration.

How LetterStream Streamlines HOA Mail

Simplify Sending Mail

Instead of dealing with printers and envelopes, HOAs can send physical mail online in minutes. Upload your documents, choose recipients, and we handle the rest.

HOA Software Integration for Seamless Mailings

Our API connects with HOA management software like CINC, allowing for automated mailings of homeowners association dues reminders, violation notices, and community updates—all from the same system you already use.

Proxy & Ballot Mailings for HOA Elections

For board elections and annual meetings, HOAs must distribute proxy forms, ballots, and the homeowners association annual meeting agenda. LetterStream ensures:

Accurate mailing of ballots and voting instructions.
Real-time tracking for compliance.
Address verification to reduce return mail.

Send Certified Mail Online for Legal Compliance

Some HOA communications—like delinquency notices and violation warnings—require Certified Mail tracking. Our platform allows you to send Certified Mail online with tracking and the option of an electronic proof of delivery (Electronic Return Receipt). And, you can even track it all right from inside your LetterStream account.

Cost Savings & Bulk Mailing Discounts

HOAs can send mail more affordably when sending bulk mail. When you take into account the time spent to physically send mail yourself including supplies, postage and the time it takes to the Post Office—it adds up. The ability to have it all done for you without literally having to leave your desk, the price to send online is actually priceless.

The Future of HOA Mail is Automated

When HOAs use LetterStream to send snail mail online, they can automate and streamline sending a letter—from financial statements to election ballots. Whether you need to send a letter, send Certified Mail, postcards, proxy and ballet mail or integrate mailings with your HOA software, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to Upgrade Your HOA Mailing Process?

Join HOAs nationwide that trust LetterStream for their mailing needs. Send mail the easy way today at LetterStream.com.

Sealed with M.A.I.L.: Letterstream’s Core Value List For Customer Excellence

M.A.I.L. Isn’t Just What We Send—It’s Who We Are

Ok, ok, ok, we know we spend a lot of time talking about mail—how to send it, track it, and make sure it gets out the door, fast. That’s what we do.

But this blog? This one’s about the core values of who we are.

LetterStream is an online printing and mailing company, sure. But underneath the envelopes, stamps, barcodes, and batches of Certified Mail is a team of real people who care deeply about doing things the right way. It’s our commitment, and our mission to give our customers a superior experience—not just in mailing services, but in the way we work.

And we wanted our core values to reflect that—again, not just what we do, but how we show up for each other and for you.

So, we put it into four simple letters: M.A.I.L. (Mail nerds? Maybe. Proud of it? Absolutely.)

Here’s a quick overview:

M.A.I.L. stands for Mastery, Accountability, Innovation, and Leadership, the pillars that shape how we operate every day. Whether we’re handling HOA mailings, recall notices, legal mail, statements, announcements or just overall need bulk printing and mailing services utilizing First-Class Mail and Certified Mail, these values ensure that we keep pushing the envelope—literally and figuratively.

Ok, let’s break it down even further.

M is for Mastery: Always Delivering Excellence

We’ve been in the mailing industry offering mailing services around the world for a while, 20 years and counting to be exact, and we’ve learned a thing or two. But we’re not about resting on our postage-paid laurels.

Mastery means we’re committed to constant improvement—individually, as a team, and as a service.

Learning—Because the more we know, the better we serve.
Engaging—Bringing energy and enthusiasm to our work.
Growing—Never settling for “good enough” and always being open to knowing more.
Persevering—Mail must go out, rain or shine (or when the Post Office is closed, and yes we are able to do that for some postal holidays!).
Excellence—Every detail matters, from printing and mailing to keeping the production center clean and organized.

A is for Accountability: Owning Every Envelope

When you send mail online—especially important things like legal notices or invoices—you’re trusting someone else to get it right. That’s not something we take lightly.

For us, accountability looks like this:

Commitment—We show up, excited, ready to get the job done.
Communication—Behind the scenes, we like to use the term “over-communicate,” meaning everything we do within our organization is shared thoroughly to prevent any miscommunications from happening.
Integrity—We do what we say, no exceptions.
Quality—Not just good, but great.
Ownership—If there’s a challenge, we take ownership and solve it.

Whether you need to send mail online, send a letter, or track important certified mail, you can count on us to handle your job with precision and care.

I is for Innovation: Rewriting the Playbook on Mailing

Mail might be one of the oldest industries around, but that doesn’t mean we’re stuck in the past. We’re always looking for ways to improve how businesses send physical mail online, like integrating APIs for seamless online Certified Mail solutions with Certified tracking right from inside of your account.

LetterStream is all about bringing modern efficiency to the classic art of sending real mail.

When it comes to innovation, we embrace:

Curiosity—Asking “what if” and “why not?”
Problem-Solving—We’re proactive, not reactive.
Improvement—Streamlining, refining, optimizing—always.
Creativity—Thinking outside the mailbox, because even in mailing, there’s room for fresh ideas.
Transformation—Looking ahead and adapting to new tech, trends, and needs.

No matter how your business handles mailing services, we’re constantly evolving to provide better, faster, and more secure options.

L is for Leadership: Setting the Standard in Print and Mail

Leadership isn’t just about being the biggest or fastest—it’s about setting an example, empowering others, and driving meaningful change. Some companies follow trends—we set them.

From our internal team to the businesses we serve, we believe strong leadership makes the difference between a company that merely exists and one that thrives.

Here’s how LetterStream leads:

Humble—No egos, just results.
Unafraid—We tackle mailing challenges head-on. Complicated job? Bring it on.
Empowering—Helping businesses streamline printing and mailing like pros and encouraging employee growth.
Visionary—Always thinking ahead.
Inspiring—Because great mail deserves great service.

Whether you’re a business looking for bulk printing and mailing services or a legal firm in need of Certified Mail, our leadership ensures that you receive top-tier service.

Why M.A.I.L. Matters to You

We get it—core values are everywhere. But this isn’t about sounding nice. It’s about delivering work that feels right and works exactly how it should.

When you choose LetterStream, you’re not just choosing a printing and mailing company, you’re choosing a group of real people who care deeply about your deadlines, your reputation, and the trust you’re putting in us.

The LetterStream team:

Cares about the job—big or small
Respects your timelines, your data, and your reputation
Builds solutions to make mailing online easier, faster, and smarter
Knows the difference between “sent” and “done right”

Because at the end of the day, we’re not just in the business of sending mail—we’re in the business of making your life easier.

Ready to See the Difference?

If you need to send physical mail online, we’re here to make it ridiculously easy. Whether it’s a single Certified letter, a postcard campaign, or thousands of time-sensitive documents, we’ve got your back.

Ready to see the difference? Create a free account and see what happens when people who really care handle your mail.

Because great mail isn’t just about postage and paper.

It’s about people.

And we’re pretty proud of ours.

Certified Mail for Tax Time: Why Young Adults and Families Need to Get Serious About Sending Important Documents

Avoid Tax Time Trouble with Reliable Mailing Solutions from LetterStream

As tax season is upon us, young adults—and the parents who may still be helping them—are being urged to get ahead of filing deadlines and financial recordkeeping. A recent Wall Street Journal article emphasizes that many Gen Z taxpayers aren’t fully prepared for what it means to file taxes independently. Whether it’s mailing tax documents, keeping up with deadlines, or dealing with the IRS, the stakes are high—and missing paperwork could mean delays or penalties.

That’s where LetterStream comes in.

We specialize in printing and mailing services, including Certified Mail—a critical tool for anyone sending tax documents, legal notices, or time-sensitive communications. Our platform makes it simple, and everything is handled online, without a trip to the Post Office.

Why Certified Mail Still Matters—Especially for Taxes

Sending documents by Certified Mail is often recommended when dealing with government agencies like the IRS, as it provides a record of mailing and proof of delivery. Unfortunately, traditional green cards (Form 3811) are easy to lose, hard to track, and cumbersome to manage.

LetterStream eliminates that hassle with:

✅ Electronic Certified Mail receipts — Instantly available in your online account

✅ Long-term access — Our digital records outlast USPS retention windows

✅ No more green cards — Everything is tracked digitally with an Electronic Return Receipt (ERR) – add-on option

✅ Peace of mind — You’ll know exactly when your tax documents were sent and received

Whether you’re a parent helping your college-aged child file taxes for the first time, or a young professional navigating self-employment income, using Certified Mail online through LetterStream can help keep record of your filings.

Tax-Time Tips from the WSJ Article (and How LetterStream Helps)

The WSJ article offers smart guidance for young adults and families during tax season. Here are a few key takeaways—and how LetterStream supports them:

🧾 Tip 1: Keep Paperwork Organized

Save W-2s, 1099s, and proof of deductions.

How LetterStream Helps: Digitally send and archive documents via Certified Mail, knowing you’ll have easy access to mailing receipts and documents—even next year.

🧒 Tip 2: File for Dependents (Carefully)

Parents often mistakenly claim children who’ve already filed on their own.

How LetterStream Helps: Use Certified Mail to send statements or communications with legal or financial advisors—and have an electronic receipt so you know if a family member has already sent theirs.

💰 Tip 3: Report Side Income

Young adults with Venmo gigs, tutoring, or Etsy shops may need to report income they didn’t expect.

How LetterStream Helps: Submit forms or tax paperwork to your accountant or IRS with confidence—Certified Mail ensures it’s not “lost in the mail.”

When to Use Certified Mail for Taxes

You have different options when sending mail through the USPS, including First-Class Mail and Certified Mail, however, when it comes to taxes you may want to use Certified Mail for:

• Sending your tax return (if not e-filing)

• Notifying the IRS about an address change

• Responding to IRS letters or requests

• Mailing tax documents to accountants or attorneys

• Confirming delivery of supporting paperwork

Any time the date and sending of your documents matters, Certified Mail is a great option for tracking when it gets sent out and when it arrives—and LetterStream makes it effortless.

Why LetterStream Is the Smarter Way to Send Certified Mail

Instead of standing in line at the Post Office, fiddling with green cards, or losing track of receipts, you can handle it all with LetterStream.com, here’s how:

Sending Certified Mail with Electronic Return Receipt online with LetterStream

• Upload your PDF

• Choose Certified Mail (with or without Electronic Return Receipt)

• Check your proof

• Click send—we print, fold, insert, and mail it for you

• Easily track the status of your Certified Mail letter in your LetterStream account

Track Certified Mail online in your LetterStream account.

Your receipt and tracking are stored securely online. That’s one less thing to stress about this tax season.

Ready to Simplify Your Mailing Process?

Whether you’re a tax professional, parent, or first-time filer, LetterStream offers a fast and reliable way to handle Certified Mail—no printer, envelopes, or stamps required.

👉 Visit LetterStream.com to create your free account and start mailing smarter.

And if you want to dig into the tax tips for young adults, check out the full WSJ article here.

* Note: Check the website for actual delivery/send dates. This blog article is not meant as tax advice, but simply observation.

LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations the time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so, here.