Not being home to receive a package can be frustrating. You wait for a delivery only to get the dreaded “No Authorized Recipient Available” notice from USPS. Now what? This comprehensive guide will explain what that message means and what your options are for getting the package delivered.
What Does “No Authorized Recipient Available” Mean?
This notice from USPS simply means that when the postal carrier attempted to deliver your package, no one was available at the delivery address to receive and sign for it.
Packages that require a signature or have special services like certified mail or insured mail will need someone present at the delivery address who is authorized to sign for that mail piece. If no authorized recipient is available, the carrier cannot just leave the package without a signature.
Why Would I Get This Notice From USPS?
There are a few common reasons you may get the “no authorized recipient available” notice:
- The package required a signature or extra services, but no one was home at the time of delivery to sign for it.
- The delivery address provided didn’t have secure access for the postal carrier to leave the package.
- The person who lives at the address is not considered an authorized recipient for the package.
- The carrier attempted delivery, but no one answered the door after multiple knocks/doorbell rings.
What Are My Options When I Get This Notice?
Just because no one was home for the first delivery attempt doesn’t mean you won’t get your package. You have several options:
Pick Up The Package at Your Local Post Office
The notice should specify which post office is holding your package. Take the slip and a photo ID to the post office during regular business hours to retrieve it.
Schedule Redelivery for a Day You’ll Be Home
Use the redelivery slip or go online to schedule a convenient day and time for redelivery so you can be home to accept the package.
Authorize a Neighbor or Other Recipient
Fill out the authorization form on the notice to allow a trusted neighbor or other person at your address to receive the item. Leave it in your mailbox for USPS.
Request Parcel Lockers Delivery
If your area has parcel lockers, you can opt to have packages delivered there instead of your home. Retrieve them anytime using the locker code.
Intercept the Package
If you won’t be home for a while, you can redirect the shipment so USPS returns it to the sender or forwards it to a different address.
What Happens If I Don’t Do Anything?
The post office will hold your package for up to 15 days. If you don’t pick it up or schedule redelivery by then, they will return the package to the sender. You can still retrieve the item from the sender if needed.
Can I Change My Delivery Options to Avoid This?
Yes! Sign up on the USPS website for informed delivery notifications so you know when packages are on their way. Consider a parcel locker if available. Also, request future shipments use “indirect signature” which allows the carrier to sign for you.
The “no authorized recipient available” notice can be inconvenient but just remember you have options to get your package through alternate delivery or pickup. With some proactive planning, you can avoid the issue altogether and ensure you never miss a delivery again.
