By LawInspectsNo, it is not illegal to mail cash money right here in the United States. Though there are rules and regulations regarding that, and if your money were to be stolen in between, then it is kinda hard to recover. Keep on reading to know about it all in a much better way.
USPS Says It’s Legal, But Not Always Smart
Though the USPS allows it, mailing money can go very wrong. An envelope can go astray, can be damaged, and there might be an occasional theft as well. Now, once that happens, the money is never tons of times recoverable, especially if you don’t use secure mailing methods.
Actual incidents have taken place wherein postal workers would open the envelopes, remove/steal cash or gift cards, and then reseal them. Because of that, USPS does not suggest sending money unless it is absolutely necessary.
What’s a Safer Option to Send Money?
Yes, it is true, USPS suggests that, instead of sending money through the mail, a money order should be used. One may buy this from any post office. It has no expiry date, it tracks or refunds should it disappear.
Other secured options include bank checks or certified checks if it is too much. These are very secure compared to just stuffing some bills in an envelope.
What If You Still Want to Mail Cash?
Registered Mail is the method to go for if one must mail cash. It is the sole USPS service that will insure cash up to $50,000. If there is a loss, there may be a chance to obtain reimbursement, but for this to happen, everything has to be done according to the guidelines.
On other sides, if you, via regular or Priority Mail, send any money that may go missing, $15 is the maximum refund granted. It sure won’t help if for some reason the mail contains something of value.
Tips to Keep Your Mail (and Money) Safe
Well, if you’re sending something valuable:
- Get it stamped and postmarked at the post office; never leave it in your mailbox.
- Avoid sending anything on a weekend or holiday when increased delays take place.
- Have a neighbor pick up your mail for you or hold your mail at the post office if you’re going to be gone.
A report should be filed right away with the USPS and local law enforcement authorities if something is lost or stolen. Mail theft is a serious crime, to be honest, and can be pursued legally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send a little bit of money with a greeting card for a birthday?
Yes, it’s allowed and legal too. But still, it goes without saying that such a thing could be lost or stolen. On that risk, the sender always has to be willing to bear it.
What if I mailed $100 and it vanished?
Unless you insured it with Registered Mail, there is a slim chance of anyone paying you under such conditions. And it is for just such reasons that USPS discourages sending cash.
Do I get in any sort of trouble for mailing cash?
No. It would be if you do so for illegal reasons. Do not do it, period, to hide or dodge taxes.