If a USPS domestic insured package arrives damaged, keep the package and check the mailing date on your receipt. USPS allows an immediate damage claim, but it must be filed no later than 60 days after the mailing date.
Either the sender or recipient can file. The person filing needs the original mailing receipt. Insurance may be included with the mail service or purchased separately; USPS cannot compensate for uninsured damaged items.
Gather evidence before filing
Have the tracking or label number ready, together with evidence of insurance, the item's value when mailed and its damage. A sales receipt, paid invoice or completed online transaction record can help establish value.
Take photographs that clearly show the damage. USPS also requires an estimate of repair costs from a reputable dealer for damaged-item claims.
Save the original packaging and everything inside until the claim is settled. Do not discard damaged goods after photographing them or reship the undamaged contents separately. USPS may ask you to bring the entire package to a local Post Office for inspection.
Submit online or request a paper form
File through a free USPS.com account and use Claim History to check progress. Keep your evidence documents until the claim is resolved.
If you cannot file online, call 1-800-332-0317 to request a paper Domestic Claim Form. That number is for paper-form requests only. Complete the form and mail it with proof of value and insurance to the address printed on it.
USPS may approve all or part of a claim or deny it; payment cannot exceed the item's actual value. If payment is partial or the claim is denied, you can appeal within 30 days after receiving the decision. Use the same online or mail route as the original claim, address the reasons given and include any new supporting documents.
A package that never arrives has different waiting periods depending on the mail service. Check the USPS domestic claims guidance[1] for the applicable claim type.
