How Quickly Can I Start Using My VPM Account?

Setting up a Virtual Post Mail (VPM) account is a quick process, but understanding how the timeline works ensures you won't experience any gaps in your mail delivery.

Here is everything you need to know about how quickly your account will be ready to use.

Instant Access vs. Account Activation

The short answer is: You can use your mailbox address immediately upon signup. As soon as you complete the registration process, your new mailbox address is assigned, and you can begin giving it out to companies, clients, updating it on your website, or using it for new registrations.

However, there is an important distinction between having an address and having an activated account:

• Immediate Access: You get your address right away.
• Receiving Mail: We can receive and securely store mail for you the moment you sign up. Your mail will not be rejected or returned to the sender.
• Full Activation: While we can receive your mail, to legally scan or forward any mail that arrives at your new address, VPM must first approve your USPS Form 1583 and two forms of identification. This process is quick and typically happens within 1–2 business days after we receive your valid documents.

Transitioning Your Mail to VPM

To get your mail moving to your new VPM address, you have two options. While you can use either one depending on your preference, we highly recommend using both to make sure no important correspondence slips through the cracks.

Option 1: Update Your Mailers Directly (Recommended)

You can manually reach out to your banks, clients, utility companies, and vendors to update your mailing address directly with them.

• The Benefit: This is the most reliable way to make sure your mail goes straight to your VPM account without any middleman delays.

Option 2: File a USPS Change of Address

As a safety net to catch any mailers you might have missed, file an official Change of Address request with the postal service.

• ⚠️ The USPS Processing Window:
  • The official USPS mail forwarding process takes 7 to 10 business days (about 2 weeks) after the USPS processes your request before mail actually begins arriving at your VPM account.

Recommended Next Steps

To ensure a seamless transition without any gaps in your mail delivery, we recommend the following timeline:

• Step 1: Sign up for your VPM account. You can immediately file your official Change of Address request with the USPS. While the USPS takes a couple of weeks to reroute your mail, VPM can securely receive and hold any mail that arrives early.
• Step 2: Submit your Form 1583 and IDs. While we can receive your mail right away, we legally cannot scan or forward it until your compliance documents are approved. This verification process is quick and typically happens within 1–2 business days after we receive your valid documents.

By signing up and submitting your paperwork as soon as possible, you ensure your account is fully activated and ready to process your mail the moment it begins arriving from the USPS.