You usually don't need a PO Box if you're moving directly from one permanent address to another. You can typically use USPS mail forwarding while updating your address with banks, government agencies, subscriptions, and other important senders.
A PO Box can be useful if you'll be between permanent addresses, staying in temporary housing, traveling frequently, or want to keep your home address private.
When Is a PO Box Worth It?
Consider getting a PO Box if:
- You'll be temporarily staying with friends, family, or in short-term housing.
- There's a gap between leaving your old home and moving into your new one.
- You expect to change addresses more than once.
- You want a secure place to receive mail.
- You prefer not to use your home address for regular mail.
If you're moving directly into your new home and can receive mail there securely, a PO Box may be unnecessary.
Can You Get a PO Box in Another State?
Yes. You can rent a USPS PO Box in another city or state.
You can search for an available box and reserve one online. USPS still requires you to visit the Post Office where the box is located with the required identification before receiving your keys or combination.
How Much Does a PO Box Cost?
USPS PO Box prices vary by Post Office location and box size, so there isn't one nationwide price.
USPS offers rental periods of 3, 6, and 12 months. The 3-month option requires automatic renewal, while the 6- and 12-month options allow you to opt out of automatic renewal.
Check the USPS PO Box reservation tool for current pricing and availability.
What PO Box Sizes Are Available?
USPS offers five PO Box sizes at locations where they are available:
| USPS Size |
Approximate Front Dimensions |
| Extra Small (Size 1) |
3 × 5.5 in. |
| Small (Size 2) |
5 × 5.5 in. |
| Medium (Size 3) |
5.5 × 11 in. |
| Large (Size 4) |
11 × 11 in. |
| Extra Large (Size 5) |
12 × 22.5 in. |
Choose a size based on how much mail you receive and how often you plan to collect it.
Can You Have a PO Box if You Have a Mortgage?
Yes. Having a mortgage does not prevent you from renting a PO Box.
However, your lender, government agencies, and other organizations may still require your physical residential address, so a PO Box does not always replace your home address.