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Certified Mail receipt forms are available free at the local Post Office. If you are mailing more than 3 items USPS suggests using a ‘firm sheet’ or manifest (Form 3877). This special receipt is printed by computer software designed to help people than send lots of Certified Mail. The software insures the firm sheet or manifest is accurate and complete. It contains the unique article number for each piece of Certified Mail. Additionally all USPS special service fees including the certified costs, first class postage and additional endorsements are recorded correctly according to USPS standards.
When you take your letters or articles to the Post Office window clerk, make sure they round stamp (date stamp) and sign the firm sheet of manifest entry. This becomes your receipt and legal proof of mailing and acceptance of your letter by USPS.
No other receipt will be provided by USPS unless you are using the Electronic Return Receipt that provides electronic tracking and delivery confirmation service.
If your Certified Mail Return Receipt is not received after 30 days this could be a problem. This means your latter may not have been successfully delivered. If you need proof of mailing and delivery you should call the United States Postal Service 1-800-ASK-USPS and ask for help getting proof your Certified Mail letter was delivered. If USPS cannot provide proof of Certified Mail letter delivery you can request to get your money refunded from USPS for the Certified Mail fee ($2.65). You should visit the Post Office that you mailed your letter from and speak with the Postmaster. Submit form 3811-A (attached ) to get your refund request processed. You will need the firm sheet or manifest described above to prove you mailed and paid for the Certified Mail service.
Important: You must make your request for refund within 2 years of mailing.
See also Signature After Mailing | 
