If you see a barcode on the item, cross it out. This will help ensure that the item doesn’t come back to your address. [2] X Research source Don’t erase or cross out the address. If you keep getting mail addressed to someone who doesn’t live at your address, tell your mail carrier or contact your local post office. They can help ensure that you don’t keep getting misdelivered mail. [3] X Research source

You can also put the item back in your mailbox and put the red flag up. Your mail carrier should pick it up next time they deliver the mail.

You can find the nearest collection box by using the USPS “Find Locations” page. [6] X Research source

The flag on your mailbox signals to your mail carrier that you have outgoing mail in the box. [8] X Research source If you get a Priority Mail Express item that’s been delivered to the wrong address, call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) and request the number for the Priority Mail Express Reporting Unit. Call the number for instructions on how to return the item.

You can also bring the item to your local post office.

Marking or erasing anything on the item could interfere with it going to the correct address. If the item does need to be returned to the sender rather than sent on to the intended recipient, the post office has its own authorized “Return to Sender” mark for this purpose. [11] X Research source You can post an adhesive-note outside of the residential mailbox that conveys, the former mail recipient is no longer living at this current address. Do include the individuals name as seen on the mail.

You won’t be able to do this if you’ve opened the item, even if it’s resealed. You can refuse most mail items at the time of delivery or after they’ve been delivered.

If your mail carrier left you a delivery notice to sign in your mailbox, check “Refused,” sign the notice, and put it back in your mailbox. Some common types of accountable mail include Priority Mail Express, Registered Mail, Certified Mail, Collect on Delivery, and items insured for more than $200. [15] X Research source Most types of accountable mail can’t be refused after they’ve been delivered. If you want to return one of these items after you’ve received it and signed for it, you’ll need to repackage it and send it back with new postage.

Once the item is repackaged, mail it as you normally would. If you’re returning damaged or unwanted merchandise, the seller may be able to provide you with a prepaid shipping label or compensate you for the postage.