How to Easily Send Open Enrollment Mailings

Ah, open enrollment season—the annual ritual where HR professionals juggle deadlines, employee questions, and mountains of paperwork, all while trying to ensure that every employee gets the right benefits package for the year ahead. It’s a high-stakes operation, and let’s be honest—getting those open enrollment packets delivered on time is non-negotiable.

That’s where we come in.

LetterStream’s got a knack for making your open enrollment season not just manageable, but downright easy. How you might ask? Well, our professional mailing services can take the weight off your shoulders and ensure timely delivery, all while keeping things efficient, secure, and—dare we say it—enjoyable.

Why Sending Out Open Enrollment Materials On Time Matters

When it comes to open enrollment letters, timing is everything. Employees need these materials to make important decisions about their health, retirement, and other benefits. If packets are delayed, it can lead to missed deadlines, confusion, and frustration for everyone involved. That’s something no HR team wants to deal with.

By using a professional mailing service, like ours, it ensures that your open enrollment materials are sent out when they’re supposed to be. We’ve fine-tuned our process to make sure that everything from health plan details to enrollment forms are sent out on time, giving you one less thing to worry about.

Precision and Efficiency: Our Secret Sauce

Not to brag but we must say that we’ve mastered the art of efficient mail processing when it comes to open enrollment mailing services and all printing and mailing for that matter . We know that HR teams have enough on their plates, so we’ve designed our services to be as hands-off for you as possible, especially when it comes to high-volume mailing processing regarding employee benefit communications. Just upload your documents to our secure platform, and we’ll take it from there.

And yes, it really is that simple.

Security First: Protecting Sensitive Information

Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten that open enrollment packets contain some of the most sensitive information your employees will ever receive. Personal details like Social Security numbers, health information, and financial data are all part of the package, and we know that keeping this information secure is paramount.

That’s why we’ve built our platform with security at its core. We use top-tier encryption and secure data-handling practices to ensure that your employees’ personal information is protected every step of the way. You can trust us to handle your mailings with the utmost care, so you can focus on what you do best—supporting your team.

The Perks of Outsourcing Your Open Enrollment Mailings

Outsourcing your open enrollment mailings to a professional service like us isn’t just about saving time—it’s about working smarter. It allows your HR team to focus on the bigger picture, like helping employees make informed decisions about their benefits.

And let’s face it, outsourcing can be more cost-effective in the long run. No need to invest in printers, paper, postage and the hours it takes to prepare mailings in-house. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your materials are in good hands and will be sent out on time.

How LetterStream Simplifies the Process

We get it—open enrollment is a beast. But we can help you can tame it. Our platform is designed to be user-friendly, so you can upload your documents, choose your mailing options, and hit send—all in just a few clicks.

Our efficient workflow and advanced technology mean that you can trust us to handle your open enrollment mailings quickly and accurately. We take care of everything from printing and inserting to postage and delivery, so you can focus on what matters most—supporting your employees during this crucial time.

We take pride in our attention to detail and precision. With our efficient workflow, you can be confident that every piece of mail will be sent out quickly but with quality in mind. Accuracy is key during open enrollment, and we’ve designed our processes to eliminate errors and ensure that your communications are flawless.

Ready to Simplify Your Open Enrollment?

Open enrollment season comes with its fair share of challenges, but managing the mailing process doesn’t have to be one of them. With LetterStream’s services, you can rest assured that your letters will go out on time, sensitive information will stay secure, and your HR team will have more bandwidth to focus on other important tasks.

If you’re interested in simplifying your open enrollment process, take a moment to explore our offerings or get in touch to learn more. And, if you’ve been managing mailings in-house, this might be a good time to consider a more streamlined approach. Your HR team will appreciate the extra time and fewer headaches.

To learn more about how to send mail online, send Certified Mail online or about our other online mailing solutions for business mailings, click here.

Our state-of-the-art printing and mailing facility is optimized for high-volume jobs like open enrollment. We handle everything from printing and inserting to sealing and sending. And because we know time is critical, we offer expedited processing options to ensure your materials are out the door in record time.

Happy Labor Day to Our Team and Customers

As Labor Day approaches, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate and honor the incredible dedication and hard work that fuel our success. This holiday isn’t just about a well-deserved break; it’s a time to recognize the contributions of our employees and customers—those who drive industries forward and make progress possible.

Celebrating Our Employees: The Heart of LetterStream

Like we stated above, Labor Day is more than a day off; it’s a celebration of the effort, skill, and commitment that everyone brings to their work. At the core of LetterStream’s success is our team—a group of hardworking, passionate individuals who make everything we do possible. From the folks in our production facility who ensure every piece of mail is perfectly processed, including Certified Mail, to our customer service team that goes the extra mile to assist our clients, each person plays a vital role. We’re really proud of the team that powers our business— the people who go above and beyond every day to ensure that our customers receive the best service possible when sending mail online.

The LetterStream staff together for a picture at a team building event.

Appreciating Our Customers: Partners in Progress

It’s not just our team that deserves recognition, it’s also our customers, who rely on us to keep their businesses running smoothly who also play a crucial role in our success. Whether you’re managing high-volume mailings in healthcare, HOA, financial services, legal matters or any other industry, your commitment to excellence inspires us to keep improving and innovating. From invoice printing and mailing to statement printing and mailing, your trust in us motivates us to continually enhance our services.

Our customers are more than just clients—they’re partners in progress. We understand that your businesses are built on trust, reliability, and efficiency, and we’re honored that you’ve chosen us to be a part of your journey. Whether you’re sending critical documents, statements, large packet mailings, recall notices, violation notices, or everyday communications, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Labor Day is also a celebration for you for the hard work you put into your businesses. We’re proud and honored to help you achieve your goals and keep your operations running smoothly, no matter the time of year.

Looking Ahead: Continuing Our Commitment

As we honor Labor Day, we also look forward to the future. The upcoming months are some of the busiest of the year, and we’re ready to meet the challenge head-on. Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering, and we’re excited to continue serving our customers with the same dedication and reliability that you’ve come to expect from us.

As you prepare for the final quarter of the year, remember that we’re here to support you. Whether it’s handling an increase in mail volume, ensuring timely deliveries, or providing solutions to streamline your processes like invoice printing and mailing or statement printing and mailing, our team is ready to assist. We’re in this together, and we’re committed to helping your business thrive.

On Labor Day, we want to express our deepest gratitude to our employees and our customers. Your dedication, creativity, and problem-solving skills are what set us apart. It’s because of you that we can confidently say we provide the best solutions for sending mail online and more specifically business mail online in the industry.

How to Simplify Sending HOA Violation Notices

In the world of Homeowners Associations (HOAs), managing violations can be one of the most challenging aspects of maintaining community standards. Sending out violation notices is often a tedious and time-consuming process that requires careful attention to detail, accuracy, and timeliness. As industry leaders, you’re well aware of the importance of clear communication and consistency in handling these sensitive matters. However, the traditional methods of sending violation letters often introduce inefficiencies, stress, and even risk of non-compliance.

The Pain Points of Traditional HOA Violation Management

For many HOA managers, the process of managing violation notices can quickly become overwhelming. From drafting the letter, and ensuring accurate addresses, to physically sending mailing notices, every step involves potential pitfalls. These challenges often include:

Time-Consuming Processes: Crafting each letter and preparing it for mailing takes valuable time away from more strategic tasks. The manual process of printing, stuffing, and mailing can consume hours that could be better spent on improving community relations and planning.
Late and Inconsistent Sending: Ensuring that every violation notice gets out on time to be sent to its intended recipient promptly and consistently can be a logistical nightmare. Missed or delayed letters being sent can result in disputes, increased tensions, and even legal complications.
High Costs: Between printing, postage, and labor, the costs associated with mailing violation notices add up quickly. Many HOAs struggle with balancing the need for effective communication and the financial constraints of their budget.
Risk of Non-Compliance: Incorrectly sent notices or failure to adhere to timelines can result in non-compliance with local laws and regulations. This risk can lead to fines, legal challenges, and damage to the HOA’s reputation.

These pain points not only burden the administrative staff but also affect the overall harmony and satisfaction of the community members.

So, what’s the solution?

Streamlining the Process with an Advanced Mailing Service

Imagine a world where sending out violation notices is no longer a burden. A world where the process is automated, reliable, and cost-effective. A world where sending mail online was easier than ever. Sounds pretty great, doesn’t it? Well, guess what? It’s not too good to be true. This is where a specialized mailing service tailored for HOAs comes into play.

By leveraging a professional mailing service, HOAs can:

Save Time: This is the big one. Managing violation notices can be a time-consuming task for community managers and HOA administrators. If you’re in charge of them you know the pain they can cause. The hours spent drafting, printing, stuffing envelopes, and making trips to the post office add up quickly, taking away valuable time that could be better spent on more strategic initiatives to improve your community. By automating this process with a specialized mailing service, you not only free up your team’s time but also significantly reduce operational headaches.

Cut Costs: In addition to saving time, automating your mailing needs helps cut costs in a meaningful way. There’s no longer a need to stockpile office supplies like paper, ink and envelopes or to spend money on postage for each individual notice. With a professional mailing service, these expenses are consolidated, and you can take advantage of bulk mailing discounts. This means you’ll save money on every letter sent, making your budget go further while still ensuring that every notice is handled professionally and efficiently.

Other ways utilizing a bulk mail sender online can help HOAs:

Automate the Mailing Process: With automation, the entire process of sending violation notices can be streamlined. From generating the letter based on pre-set templates to automatically printing, inserting, and mailing, you eliminate the manual labor involved.
Ensure Accuracy and Compliance: Advanced mailing services are designed to handle bulk mailings with precision. This means fewer errors, timely deliveries, and adherence to compliance standards. You can rest easy knowing that every notice is sent to the right person, at the right time, without fail. Which is why we’re known for our motto; Fast and perfect mail with mad customer love!
Enhance Community Relations: When violation notices are sent promptly and professionally, it fosters a sense of trust and transparency within the community. Members appreciate the clear communication and consistent enforcement of rules, leading to a more harmonious living environment.

The Importance of Certified Mail for HOA Violation Notices

A stack of Certified Mail letters in a bin with a certified mail barcode and address being shown on one

When it comes to sending violation notices, ensuring that the recipient receives the letter is crucial. Certified Mail is an excellent solution for HOAs, providing proof of mailing and delivery through tracking, which is often required to enforce violations or proceed with further action. Certified Mail provides a sense of urgency and importance to the recipient, making it clear that the contents of the letter are significant.

Sending Certified Mail through a professional mailing service like LetterStream simplifies this process even further. Within the LetterStream online portal, sending a violation notice via Certified Mail is as simple as a few clicks. The portal allows you to track the delivery of each notice, ensuring that you have a record of when and where the letter was delivered. You can also opt-in for a Certified Mail Return Receipt or a Certified Mail Electronic Return Receipt (ERR). Both of these options get you a proof of signature, one is just the electronic version. This feature is invaluable for HOAs who need to maintain compliance records and provide proof in the case of disputes when sending a letter to homeowners.

Why Industry Leaders Are Turning to Innovative Mailing Solutions

For industry leaders in the HOA space, embracing technology and innovation is key to staying ahead. By adopting a reliable mailing solution like LetterStream, you’re not just solving a pain point; you’re setting a new standard for efficiency, compliance, and community satisfaction.

Consider the value of having a trusted partner in your corner, handling the complexities of violation notices so that you can focus on what truly matters: building a thriving, engaged, and well-managed community.

Managing violations doesn’t have to be a source of stress or a drain on resources. By partnering with a specialized mailing service like LetterStream to send Certified Mail online, HOA leaders can turn a challenging task into a streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective process by easily sending physical mail online.

Embrace the future of HOA management by simplifying your violation notice process. It’s time to leave behind the old ways of doing things and step into a world where managing violations is not just easier but also more effective. Your community deserves the best, and so do you.

The Importance of Reliable Mailing Services in Education

As the new academic year approaches, educational institutions across the country are ramping up their communication efforts. From sending out acceptance letters to ensuring that students receive their financial aid documents on time, the reliability of your mailing services can make or break the start of a successful school year.

For decision-makers in the education sector—whether you’re an administrative leader, registrar, or head of student services—reliable mailing services are critical to your institution’s operations. This is where LetterStream comes into play. We offer a solution that not only meets but exceeds the needs of schools and universities.

Below we’ll explore how schools and institutions can benefit from using our reliable mailing services, and we’ll provide some best practices for optimizing your mailing processes.

Why Schools & Universities Benefit from Sending Mail Online

So, let’s get into it. Educational institutions handle a variety of sensitive and time-critical documents. These include admission letters, transcripts, financial aid notifications and more. Each of these documents plays a vital role in the student experience and often needs to be in compliance with educational regulations.

Timing is Everything

For students and their families, receiving these documents promptly and accurately can impact major life decisions. A late or misplaced admission letter could lead to unnecessary anxiety, while a delayed financial aid notification might disrupt a student’s ability to enroll on time. Both would not be good.

Accuracy Matters

When it comes to academic records like transcripts, there’s no room for error. One wrong address, and you’re dealing with an administrative nightmare. When sending mail online utilizing our services, schools can ensure that all mailings are handled with the highest level of reliability and accuracy, safeguarding both the institution’s reputation and the student’s peace of mind.

Common Mailing Needs of Educational Institutions

If you’re looking to start doing your education mail online, here are some common mailings that can easily be uploaded into your online portal and sent with just a few clicks of a button:

Admission Letters

These are the first official lines of communication that set the tone for the student’s experience with your institution. Ensuring timely and accurate delivery of university admission letters is crucial for maintaining a positive first impression.

Transcripts

Since transcripts are essential documents that students often need quickly, whether they’re applying for jobs, further education, or certifications. LetterStream ensures these documents are sent out securely, efficiently and on time.

Financial Aid Packages

For many students, financial aid is the deciding factor in whether or not they can attend your institution. Late or misplaced financial aid packages can cause significant stress and disrupt enrollment. LetterStream helps you manage these sensitive documents with care.

Registration and Enrollment Forms

Getting students officially registered and enrolled requires the timely dispatch and receipt of various forms. LetterStream’s reliable services ensure that these documents reach students on time, streamlining the enrollment process.

Event Invitations and Reminders

Whether it’s for orientation, graduation, or other events, sending out invitations and reminders promptly can significantly impact attendance and engagement.

How LetterStream Simplifies the Mailing Process

Let’s talk about the different ways that LetterStream simplifies the mailing process for educators when it comes to sending physical mail online, shall we?

Ease of Use

LetterStream’s platform is designed with simplicity in mind. Administrative leaders can easily set up and manage their mailing needs, reducing the burden on internal staff. The interface allows for quick uploads of mailing lists, document templates, and more.

Automation and Integration

For institutions looking to streamline their operations,we offer automation features that integrate seamlessly with existing school systems. Whether you need to send recurring communications or one-time mailings, automation with an API can save time and reduce errors.

Tracking and Compliance

Schools and universities can monitor the status of every mailing, ensuring that important documents are received on time thanks to our robust tracking system when sending letters through Certified Mail. This also helps institutions stay compliant with educational regulations by providing accurate records of all mailings.

Bulk Mailing Capabilities

Handling large volumes of mail can be overwhelming, especially during peak times like the start of the school year. We easily simplify this by offering bulk mailing services that can handle thousands of documents at once, without sacrificing accuracy or speed.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Budget constraints are a reality for many educational institutions. LetterStream helps schools and universities optimize their mailing budget by offering cost-effective solutions. Whether you’re sending a handful of letters or a large batch, you only pay for what you send. No sign-up fees and no membership fees.

Secure Handling of Sensitive Information

Educational mail often contains sensitive information, from student grades to financial details. We prioritize the security of all mailings, ensuring that confidential information is handled with the highest level of protection throughout the entire mailing process.

Getting Started with LetterStream

If your school or university is ready to streamline its mailing processes and ensure that every document is mailed out quickly and accurately, then it’s time to learn more about us. With our reliable mailing services, you can enhance your communication efforts, protect your institution’s reputation, and ultimately provide a better experience for your students. To send Certified Mail online, First-Class mail online, postcards and more online, click here.

How to Transform the Way You Send Mail With APIs

In today’s digital age, the term “API” is a buzzword that’s gaining traction across various industries. But what exactly is an API, and why is it crucial for businesses, particularly those aiming to streamline their operations when it comes to sending mail online? Well, let us tell you. We believe in leveraging technology to simplify processes, and our print and mail APIs are designed to do just that. Let’s dive into the world of APIs and discover how they can revolutionize your mailing needs.

What is an API?

API stands for Application Programming Interface. In simple terms, an API is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. Imagine APIs as the middlemen that facilitate interactions between software systems, enabling them to share data and perform tasks seamlessly. APIs are essential for integrating different systems, allowing them to work together efficiently and effectively.

The Power of APIs in Mailing Services

For businesses such as Homeowners Associations (HOAs), law firms, government agencies, healthcare providers and other enterprises, sending mail is a regular but critical task. In the past, this involved manual processes that were time-consuming and prone to errors. However, with the creation and power of APIs, these tasks can now be automated, reducing the workload and increasing accuracy for businesses.

Here’s where we come in. We offer robust print and mail APIs that allow businesses to send mail automatically through our website. Our send mail APIs are designed to integrate smoothly with your existing systems, making the process of sending mail as easy as a few clicks. Whether you need to send invoices, legal documents, annual meeting notices, past-due notices, check mailing APIs or postcards our APIs handle it all with accuracy and speed.

How LetterStream Incorporates APIs

computer with a bunch of envelopes flying out of it and into a mailbox

Our journey with APIs is driven by our commitment to innovation and efficiency. By incorporating APIs, we enable businesses to automate their mailing processes, saving time and reducing costs and who wouldn’t want that? Here’s how it works:

Seamless Integration: Our APIs are designed to integrate effortlessly with your software, whether you use a custom-built solution or popular platforms. This means you can send mail directly from your application without needing to switch between different systems.
Automation at Its Best: Once integrated, our APIs handle the entire mailing process automatically. From printing to postage, everything is managed through our secure and reliable system. You can schedule mailings and track deliveries all through the print-on-demand API.
Customization and Flexibility: We understand that every business has unique needs. Our APIs are highly customizable, allowing you to tailor the process according to your specific requirements. Whether you need to send bulk mailings or individual letters, our API integration offers the flexibility you need.

Benefits of Using APIs

Our print and mail APIs offer significant advantages across various industries. By automating the mailing process, businesses can save time, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency. Here are some key benefits:

Automation: APIs allow for the automatic sending of various mail types, such as First-Class Mail for notices and billing statements, Certified Mail and FedEx 2Day for eviction notices and legal communications, flats for larger mailings and postcards for community information and news. This reduces the need for manual intervention and minimizes the risk of errors.

Security: With built-in security features, our APIs ensure that sensitive information, such as legal documents and patient communications, is handled with the utmost care, complying with relevant regulations and standards.

Efficiency: By streamlining the process of sending mail, businesses can ensure timely communication with their audiences. Whether it’s sending official notices and forms, or communicating important information, API printing and mailing enables quick and efficient mail distribution.

Cost Savings: Automating mailing processes reduces administrative burdens and operational costs. Businesses can allocate resources more effectively, focusing on core business needs rather than manual mailing tasks.

Scalability: Our APIs are designed to handle varying volumes of mail, from individual letters to bulk mailings. This scalability makes it easy for businesses to manage their mailing needs as they grow.

By leveraging our snail mail APIs, businesses can enhance their communication strategies, maintain compliance with regulations, and improve overall operational efficiency. Explore the LetterStream API Partnership to enhance your business operations today!

Celebrating a new Milestone: 10,000,000 jobs with Rae’s Recovery Co

Our mission and goal here at LetterStream is to make life easier for our customers, especially when it comes to sending mail online. Today, we are thrilled to celebrate a major milestone: the creation of our 10,000,000th job! This incredible achievement is a testament to the trust our customers place in us, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

The lucky creator of our milestone job is Rae’s Recovery Co, a dedicated credit repair company committed to helping clients improve their financial health. We are honored to have partnered with Rae’s Recovery Co and their owner, Choncere Watson, who has been a valued customer and advocate of LetterStream’s services.

About Rae’s Recovery Co

Rae’s Recovery Co is a leading credit repair company dedicated to empowering individuals and families by boosting their credit scores and financial stability. They offer comprehensive credit solutions, recognizing the broad impact of credit challenges on areas like home purchases and job prospects. The expert team at Rae’s Recovery Co collaborates with each client to create tailored strategies that improve credit scores and overall financial health. With a belief that everyone deserves a second chance, they are committed to restoring their clients’ creditworthiness and achieving lasting financial stability. Rae’s Recovery Co is the trusted partner to unlock your full financial potential and guide you towards your financial goals and they use us as their bulk mail sender online!

From the Owner

Choncere shared her experience with us, saying, “I use LetterStream for my credit repair business and getting letters sent out on my client’s behalf. LetterStream is a great solution because it is very convenient and I don’t have to leave my office to get things mailed. Just a few clicks and everything is sent off. LetterStream is the only mailing service I use.”

That’s awesome to hear, Choncere! We’re thrilled our services work so well for you!

Celebrating Trust and Convenience

Reaching this milestone is not just about the numbers; it’s about the trust our customers have placed in us. We understand the importance of efficient, reliable mailing solutions, especially for businesses like Rae’s Recovery Co, where time-sensitive communications are crucial. Our platform offers the perfect solution for companies looking to send mail online, eliminating the need for physical trips to the post office and simplifying the entire process.

Why Choose LetterStream?

For industry leaders in credit repair and other sectors needing a new mailroom, choosing the right mailing service is key. LetterStream provides a seamless experience that saves time and effort. Here are some reasons why businesses like Rae’s Recovery Co trust us with their mailing needs:

Convenience: Our platform allows you to send mail online with just a few clicks. Whether you’re at the office or working remotely, you can easily manage your mailing tasks without any hassle.
Efficiency: With LetterStream, there’s no need to handle physical mail or deal with the logistics of sending letters. Our automated system takes care of everything, from printing to postage, ensuring that your mail is sent out accurately and on time. So yes, you actually can send physical mail online.
Reliability: We pride ourselves on providing a reliable service that our customers can depend on. With over 10,000,000 jobs now completed, we have a proven track record of delivering quality and satisfaction.
Cost-Effective: Our services are not only efficient but also cost-effective. By streamlining the mailing process, we help businesses save on resources and costs associated with traditional mailing methods.
Variety of Services: We offer a wide range of mailing options. You can easily send First-Class Mail online, Certified Mail, Bulk Mailings, FedEx 2Day, Statements and more. This variety ensures that we can meet the diverse needs of our customers, whether it’s sending important documents securely or managing large-scale mailings.

A Special Thank You

To celebrate this special milestone, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our customers, especially Rae’s Recovery Co and Choncere Watson. Your trust and loyalty mean the world to us, and we’re committed to continuing to provide the best mailing solutions for your business needs.

As we look to the future, we are excited to bring even more innovative features and improvements to our platform, making it easier than ever to send mail online. Whether you’re in the credit repair industry, like Rae’s Recovery Co needing to send credit repair mail, or another sector, we are here to support your mailing needs with efficiency and reliability.

Join the LetterStream Community

If you’re looking for a convenient and reliable way to handle your mailing tasks, we invite you to join the LetterStream community. With our user-friendly platform and exceptional customer service, we make sending mail online a breeze. Visit LetterStream.com today to learn more about our services and how we can help streamline your mailing process.

Thank you once again to Rae’s Recovery Co, Choncere Watson, and all our valued customers for making this milestone possible. Here’s to the next 10,000,000 jobs and beyond!

To learn more about Rae’s Recovery Co, click here.

Click here to learn more about our products and click here to sign up for a new account.

LetterStream Makes Donation to the 2024 Code:Red Water Drive

To Donate to the Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red, click here.

Let’s start by saying that we’re so excited to be back contributing to the 2024 Code: Red Water Drive for the Phoenix Rescue Mission!

Ok, now for the story.

A longtime customer of ours, Brown Management, had asked us to participate again this year in helping to give back to the Code:Red Heat Relief Water Drive and of course, we said yes!

Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red

A stack of cases of water at our print and mailing facility

In case you haven’t heard of it, let’s first dive into who the Phoenix Rescue Mission is and what Code:Red represents.

The Phoenix Rescue Mission’s purpose is to provide life-transforming solutions to people facing hunger, homelessness, addiction and trauma.

Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red more specifically helps those who are homeless or less fortunate get access to drinking water during the extreme summer months in Arizona.

Unfortunately, over the last few years the summers have continued to get hotter and hotter.

According to Maricopa County, in 2023 the number of heat-related deaths was 645.

This was up 52% from 2022 which had 425 confirmed deaths and get ready for this, is an 896% increase over the last 10 years.

Mind-blowing.

With that being said, it’s imperative that individuals get adequate amounts of drinking water to stay hydrated and that’s where this water drive comes into play.

Our Core Values

Cases of water bottles on a pallet to be donated from our online print and mail location in Scottsdale

As a company, we live and breathe our internal core values.

One in particular that stands out to us when it comes to this mission is: We believe in the tremendous value of people and that all should be treasured.

We believe it is our duty to treasure all people and to give back when we can, which is why we were thrilled to help Brown Management give back to the Phoenix Rescue Mission, helping them get drinking water into the hands of those in need.

Water Bottles Donated

Pallets of cases of water bottles in the truck to help Phoenix Rescue Mission and Brown, an HOA management community

We want to share how much water LetterStream donated but we’re not sharing to gloat but rather to showcase and celebrate our team members who believe in treasuring people.

This year LetterStream donated 240 cases of water and over 5,760 water bottles that will be dispersed to those who are in need of drinking water.

We couldn’t be more proud. Way to go, team!

A Big Thank You

LetterStream staff standing in our printing and mailing facility next to donated water bottles — A few of our awesome team members!

With that being said, we first want to give a big thank you to our awesome team for helping us treasure people and for donating to this incredible cause.

They came together and made magic happen.

We also want to give a huge thank you to Brown Management for asking us to participate again this year.

Brown is an HOA community management company that uses our services to send their HOA mail, including HOA statements, annual meeting packets, violation letters and more to their homeowners.

We also want to give a big shout-out and thank you to OPACS for supplying the box truck and lift to pick up and help deliver the water bottles that will be donated.

They also helped contribute to the Code:Red as well and we are super grateful for that.

OPACS, which offers office products and custom solutions, is another great long-term customer of ours who uses our print and mail services.

OPACS driving loading in cases of water on a pallet into the truck

Thanks again to everyone who made this possible.

If you want to donate to the Phoenix Rescue Mission Code:Red, you can check them out here.

To learn more about LetterStream and our printing and mailing services, click here.

A New Postage Increase Begins in July

The United States Postal Service will increase prices for the second time this year. On July 14, 2024, the cost of a First-Class stamp will rise by five cents.

Unfortunately, this was inevitable as the timing of the new prices is consistent with the USPS twice-a-year postage increase. If you recall, back in January the first 2024 postage increase took place and now here we are again, mid-year, with another. This also happened back in 2021, 2022 and 2023 so it’s not surprising that 2024 is any different.

July 2024 USPS Postage Price Increase

Effective July 14, 2024, the cost of mailing letters, packages, and other USPS services will climb. This next postage increase is part of USPS’s ongoing efforts to balance its budget and cover rising operational expenses. While the exact changes will depend on the type of mail you send, it’s clear that everyone from businesses to individual mailers will feel the impact. It’s crucial to stay informed about these changes so you can adjust your budget and mailing strategies accordingly. By planning ahead for the United States Postal Service postage increase and exploring cost-saving options, you can minimize the financial impact and keep your mailing operations running smoothly.

Postage Prices

Let’s start by talking about how this will look for our current customers. Since USPS postage is rising, we’ve updated our pricing to reflect that. Below you will find what each type of mailing will cost you going forward.

LetterStream’s New Postage Price Increase:

First-Class postage is increasing by $0.05, meaning a First-Class letter will start at $1.18
Flats are going up $0.21 and will now start at $2.54
Certified Mail (without Electronic Return Receipt) is going up $0.45, plus an extra $0.05 for the First-Class postage increase and that will result in a new price of 7.84 (without ERR) per letter
Certified Mail with Electronic Return Receipt Add-On is going up $0.30 which puts our total increase of $0.80 more per letter. New base price of Certified Mail with ERR is $9.96
Express Postcards are increasing by $0.03 making the new price $0.81
PRO Postcards will increase the same amount as First-Class postage, which is $0.05, making the new price $1.20 per postcard
Marketing Mail will go up by $0.03, making the new starting price $1.04
International Letters are going up $0.10, along with a $0.05 surcharge making the new starting price $2.68
Registered Mail will have a new starting price of $33.68
Extra Ounces (Letters) is going up to $0.28
Extra Ounces (Flats) is going up to $0.27

Why Is It Important to Know About the USPS Postage Rate Increase?

Being in the know about the upcoming US postage stamp increase is crucial for smart planning and smooth operations. Here are some reasons why:

Budget Planning: For businesses that rely heavily on sending physical mail for billing or communication purposes, postage costs are a significant budget line item. Understanding the new rates allows you to adjust your budget accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses.
Mailing Strategy: Higher postage rates might impact the volume and frequency of your mailings. Knowing about the increase ahead of time gives you the opportunity to reassess your mailing strategy. You might even consider exploring bulk mailing options.
Customer Communication: Transparency is key in customer relationships. If your business will be passing on some of the increased costs to your clients, it’s important to communicate these changes clearly and in advance to maintain trust.
Operational Adjustments: Organizations that send a large volume of mail might need to make operational adjustments to accommodate the increased costs. This could involve exploring printing and mailing solutions that can help utilize the entire process for you, which in the end can save you time and money, even with USPS prices increasing.

LetterStream’s Commitment to Your Mailing Needs

LetterStream is dedicated to helping you navigate these changes with ease and no we’re not just saying that. We know it’s frustrating with the cost of just about everything still on the rise and our advanced mailing solutions and expert team are here to ensure your mailing operations remain smooth and cost-effective. We offer a range of services designed to optimize your mailing processes, from the ability to easily upload your job in 2 minutes or less with no trips to the post office through First-Class Mail, flat envelope mailing and postcards to easily being able to track Certified Mail or FedEx 2Day from right inside of your account.

Send Your Mail Electronically

Ok, so let’s look at another angle. With the cost of postage rising bi-annually, you may be thinking about sending your statements, notices and other forms of mail communication electronically. Well, if that’s something you’re considering you’re in luck. Not only is LetterStream experts in the industry of snail mail but we also offer eDoc Delivery, which is a way to send your documents via email directly through your LetterStream account. This service can be done in place of or in addition to your regular UPSP mailings. To learn more visit our free 24/7 online Chatbot for pricing and next steps.

For more information regarding the July 2024 price increase, visit the USPS website or you can download the list of rate changes here.

The Best Option for HOA Printing and Mailing

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful homeowner association (HOA).

It’s the key to keeping residents informed, engaged and satisfied.

Yet, for many HOA managers and community managers, handling the printing and mailing tasks can be daunting. We know this first-hand because we’ve talked to so many homeowner managers and HOA self-managed communities that are doing all of these tasks themselves.

It’s a lot!

However, it doesn’t have to be a lot and this is where specialized HOA printing and mailing services come into play.

These services are designed to streamline the HOA mailing process allowing for timely and professional communication with residents.

Ok, let’s dive a little deeper in the world of HOA printing and mailing services, shall we? We’ll explore some of the benefits, challenges, and key considerations for implementation.

by Tierra Mallorca

Understanding HOA Printing and Mailing Services

HOA printing and mailing services are specialized offerings tailored to the unique needs of homeowner associations. As experts in the industry for over 20 years, specifically working with homeowners associations, property management companies and HOA software companies we know the specifics of what is needed.

Home owners associations encompass a wide range of tasks, from keeping track of the fees due for HOA invoices and organizing events to handling the mailing process of sending out HOA coupons, HOA statements, HOA violation notices, HOA annual meeting notices, HOA ballots and more…you get the point.

The goal of a printing and mailing company specializing in HOA mailings and one of our goals specifically at LetterStream is to alleviate the burden on HOA managers and team members who often juggle multiple responsibilities, at least when it comes to mail.

By outsourcing these tasks to a dedicated company, HOA managers can focus more on strategic planning and community building while ensuring effective communication is maintained.

The Importance of Effective Communication in HOAs

Let’s be honest here. The backbone of a thriving homeowner association is effective communication. It fosters a sense of community, encourages resident participation, and ensures transparency in HOA operations.

There’s also the fact that there are legal requirements for HOAs to provide certain notices and documents to residents. Again, this is done through the communication HOAs have with their communities. These can include meeting announcements, financial reports, invoices and voting materials.

By using a company that understands the industry and HOA printing and mailing services, the HOA communities and HOA community managers can ensure they meet these legal obligations while enhancing their communication strategies.

Challenges in HOA Printing and Mailing

Like we mentioned above, printing and mailing tasks in-house can be a daunting task for HOAs.

One common issue is the time and effort required to handle these tasks. From dealing with invoices and fees due to stuffing envelopes, applying postage and driving the letters to the post office, these tasks can consume significant resources.

Other challenges HOAs face when printing and mailing on their own include:

Ensuring accuracy and compliance
Time-consuming tasks
High costs of equipment and supplies
Errors in mailing addresses or content
Difficulty in tracking and reporting
Compliance with postal regulations and HOA bylaws
Resident dissatisfaction

These challenges are not to be taken lightly and can impact the overall efficiency and effectiveness of HOA operations.

Selecting the Right HOA Printing and Mailing Service Provider

Choosing the right service provider is crucial for the success of your HOA’s printing and mailing operations.

Several factors should be considered. These include:

Experience in handling HOA printing and mailing tasks
A comprehensive range of services, from products to delivery
Competitive pricing and bulk mailing options
Positive customer reviews and testimonials
Understanding the legal and compliance side

Benefits of Outsourcing to Specialized Services Through LetterStream

Outsourcing to specialized HOA printing and mailing services can offer several benefits.

Firstly, it can result in significant cost and time savings. These companies have the expertise and equipment to handle large volumes of printing and mailing tasks efficiently.

That is where LetterStream comes into play.

Being experts in the industry for over 20 years we know the ins and outs of what HOAs really need when it comes to their mailing, including the knowledge and understanding of compliance with postal regulations and HOA bylaws.

Not only have we spoken to many community managers, but we’ve also participated in improving our products and services throughout the years to better serve the HOA industry and HOA software companies specifically.

We can’t tell you how many times we’ve heard, “Ugh I dread when it’s time to do mailings. We have to make a whole night of it.” or “We use another company but they take forever to just send out our stuff and the process isn’t simple.”

That’s so frustrating for any HOA and it’s frustrating for us to hear that HOAs have such a hard time getting the services they need and that they end up having to sacrifice their personal and family time to make sure community needs are met.

To sum it up, LetterStream helps you save on your overhead costs of supplies, postage and equipment, along with saving not only your time but the company’s times as well.

by Blake Wheeler

Enhancing HOA Operations Through Effective Printing and Mailing Services

HOA printing and mailing services offer numerous benefits. They streamline communication, ensure legal compliance, and save time and resources. These services also enhance community engagement through professional and timely delivery of HOA communications.

Choosing the right service provider is crucial. It’s important to consider their expertise, technology, understanding of HOA mailings and ease of use. A good provider will offer a seamless transition, ongoing support, and services tailored to the HOA’s needs.

To learn more about HOA mailings, click here.

LetterStream helps HOA communities print and mail violation letters, statements, annual meeting notices and anything else an HOA may need through First-Class Mail, Certified Mail, postcards and FedEx 2Day.

Choosing the Right Print and Mail Service

Why You Need a Print and Mail Service

In today’s digital world, many businesses have shifted to online communication. However, there are still situations where physical mail is necessary, like sending important documents, contracts or invoices or violation notices.

This is where a reliable print and mail service comes in.

Using a print and mail service can save you time, money, and resources. Instead of manually printing, folding, stuffing, and mailing documents, you can simply upload them to an online platform and have them printed and mailed on your behalf.

Also, a really good print and mail service ensures that your documents are handled with care and provides reporting and tracking features, giving you insights into your mailing activities,

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Print and Mail Service

Choosing the right print and mail service for your business requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Types of Mailing Services Offered

The first thing to consider is the types of mailing services offered by the company. Do they offer Certified Mail or is it only First-Class Mail? Do they give you the option to choose different paper types and colors? Make sure the service you choose can handle all of your mailing needs.

Additionally, if you’re a B2B business, you may want to consider a print and mail service that offers bulk mail services. This can save you time and money when sending out large quantities of mail and who wouldn’t want that?

Online Platform Ease of Use

by Austin Distel

The whole point of using a print and mail service is to save time and effort. Which is why it’s so important to choose a service that has an easy-to-use online platform. This includes features such as an intuitive user interface, easy document uploading, and the ability to track your mailings.

An online platform that offers a seamless experience from start to finish can greatly reduce the potential for errors and increase efficiency. Look for a service that provides a dashboard where you can manage your account details, view past transactions, and even track your mailings if you opted in for that.

Turnaround Time

As you know when it comes to mailing important documents, time is of the essence. Make sure the print and mail service you choose has a quick turnaround time. Ideally, they should be able to print and mail your documents within 24-48 hours.

Furthermore, if your business requires expedited services for last-minute mailings, check if the provider offers rush options. Knowing that you can rely on a quick option in urgent situations can be a huge plus when choosing the right service.

Cost

Of course, cost is a major factor when choosing a print and mail service. Compare prices between different services and like we mentioned above, consider the types of services offered and turnaround times. Something to ponder is that paying a little extra for a more reliable service may be worth it in the long run.

Oh and one more little note to keep in mind. While evaluating costs, don’t forget to account for hidden fees such as setup charges, minimum order requirements, or cancellation fees. A transparent pricing structure without unexpected costs can help you budget more accurately for your mailing needs.

Security and Privacy

by Mediamodifier (https://unsplash.com/@mediamodifier)

When sending sensitive documents, security and privacy are of utmost importance. Be sure the print and mail service you choose has secure servers and protocols in place to protect your information.

It’s also important to inquire about the company’s data handling policies and whether they comply with regulations like GDPR or HIPAA, depending on your industry. The assurance that your confidential documents are handled with the highest level of security can give you peace of mind with each mailing.

Customer Service and Support

In case of any issues or questions come up, it’s important to have support from your print and mail service. Look for services that offer help whether it’s through phone, email, or a chatbot.

Quality customer service should be knowledgeable and responsive, capable of resolving any concerns swiftly. Make sure to read reviews or testimonials to gauge the service’s reputation for customer support before making your decision.

LetterStream for Printing and Mailing

Ok, so here’s the part where we tell you more about us! As experts in the industry, we’re a popular choice for businesses looking for a user-friendly online platform and quick turnaround times and we’re not just saying that.

Everything we’ve mentioned above with what to look for, we offer! Whether you’re an HOA manager looking to mail out your annual meeting notices, invoices or statements, a lawyer looking to send bulk Certified Mailings, a company needing to send out mass communication about a product recall or someone just wanting to send a single letter to grandma, we’ve got you. And, our online platform is a breeze to use. You can easily upload a job in 2 minutes or less, choose different paper and envelope types and it allows for real-time tracking of your mailings with no signup or monthly fees and no order minimums. You literally just pay for what you want to send.

Oh, and you shouldn’t have any issues when using us but if you do run into any or have questions, we have a very knowledgeable chatbot that is available 24/7 to help you out and of course our awesome customer support team is on hand as well. Not much usually comes up for our customers because we offer the option to pause, stop or shred a job from inside your online portal, but we are here if you need us.

Some more of our benefits include:

Amazing speed! 99% of jobs are mailed by next business day, with many mailed the same day we receive it
See instant, real-time proof of your mailings
Easily add reply envelopes or additional inserts to a mailing
Create your mailing anytime, day or night
Find any mail piece you ever sent by name or address
Certified Mail and FedEx 2Day tracking stored indefinitely in your account
Receive an email notification when your job is mailed

We offer a variety of products including First-Class Mail, Certified Mail, FedEx 2Day, Registered Mail, HOA Annual Meeting Notice packets, postcards and more.

Tips for Using a Print and Mail Service

If you’ve decided to use us, great! Either way, once you’ve decided to outsource your print and mail services, there are some tips to keep in mind for making the most out of their services:

Organize Your Documents

Before uploading your documents, make sure they are properly organized. This will save you time and prevent any mistakes during the printing and mailing process.

Proper organization also includes ensuring your documents are formatted correctly and meet any specifications required by the service. Double-check that all files are in the correct format and resolution to avoid any printing issues.

If you create a free LetterStream account then you have access to our free PDF tool, which helps you double-check address placements and errors before uploading your documents.

Double Check Addresses

by Jonathan Kemper

When sending important documents, it’s crucial to double-check the recipient’s address as any errors in the address could result in the mail being returned to you.

Taking the time to verify addresses can prevent delays and additional costs associated with returned or misdelivered mail. Many print and mail services offer address validation tools, so take advantage of these features to ensure accuracy. To answer your question, of course, LetterStream offers this service. We call it the Address List Cleanup (CASS) tool, which you can learn more about here.

Optimize Printing and Mailing Frequency

To save time and costs, consider optimizing your printing and mailing frequency. Instead of sending one document at a time, batch them together and send them in one mailing. Scheduling regular mailings, such as monthly invoices or quarterly newsletters, can help streamline your operations.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right print and mail service is an important decision for any business. Consider the factors mentioned above and choose a service that best meets your needs and budget. With the right print and mail service, you can save time, money, and resources, and ensure that your important documents are delivered securely and on time.

To learn more about how LetterStream can help you with your print and mail needs, sign up for a free account, with no hidden or monthly fees, here.