Mailing an important letter, which is better: Certified Mail, Return Receipt, Delivery/Signature Confirmation?

Question

At the post office, I was surprised by all the forms and services offered. What is the difference between Certified Mail (dark green form), Return Receipt (light green form), Delivery Confirmation (neon green form) and Signature Confirmation (neon pink form)? And which do I choose if I want proof of delivery for important documents? I'm trying to leave a good paper trail. Thanks for any help, the USPS website confused me more, so I thought I'd ask you trusty YAers.

Answer 1

Of the above choices, certified with return receipt (form 3811) is the best choice. The return receipt shows the mailer that the certified letter has been signed for and accepted by the recipient. Delivery confirmation gives you a tracking number, however, it is not as safe as Certified letter with return receipt. Signature confirmation requires that the recipient sign for the letter. The safest way to mail anything is with registered mail with a return receipt. Registered mail is carried in a locked pouch and requires that the recipient not only sign for it but also be present. I hope this helps you.

Answer 2

Send it certified mail with return receipt. When the person signs it, the post office will send back the green card, and it should have the signature and the date that they received it.

Answer 3

Certified mail is the best way to go

Answer 4

Send it Certified, Return Receipt.  This way the receiver has to sign for it and you get a hard copy post card receipt showing they signed for it.