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How to Notarize USPS Form 1583 in Florida: A Complete Guide for Virtual Mailboxes

Rush Notary Team·

USPS Form 1583 is the application that allows a commercial mail receiving agency (CMRA) — such as a virtual mailbox provider — to receive mail on your behalf. Federal law requires this form to be notarized before a CMRA can handle your mail.

For Florida residents and businesses using virtual mailbox services, online notarization makes completing Form 1583 fast and convenient. This guide explains what the form is, why it needs notarization, and how to get it done online with Rush Notary.

What Is USPS Form 1583?

USPS Form 1583, officially titled "Application for Delivery of Mail Through Agent," is a federal form required by the United States Postal Service. When you use a virtual mailbox service, the provider acts as your agent to receive, scan, and forward your mail. USPS requires notarized consent before allowing this arrangement.

The form collects:

  • Your full legal name and address
  • The names of anyone else authorized to receive your mail
  • Two forms of identification
  • Your signature and the notary's seal

Without a properly notarized Form 1583, the virtual mailbox provider cannot legally open or handle your mail.

Why Form 1583 Requires Notarization

The notarization requirement exists to prevent mail fraud and identity theft. By notarizing the form, you create a legally verifiable record that:

  • You are who you claim to be
  • You knowingly authorized the CMRA to receive your mail
  • The CMRA has a documented chain of custody for your correspondence

This protects both you and the postal service from fraudulent mail redirection schemes.

What You Need Before Your Session

To complete Form 1583 and get it notarized, gather the following before starting your online session:

The Completed Form 1583

Download the form from your virtual mailbox provider or directly from USPS. Fill in all required fields except the signature and date lines. Do not sign the form before the notary session.

Two Forms of Identification

USPS requires two forms of ID for Form 1583:

Primary ID (one required):

  • Valid driver's license or state ID
  • U.S. passport
  • Alien registration card
  • Military ID

Secondary ID (one required):

  • Vehicle insurance card
  • Voter registration card
  • Utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Lease agreement

Both forms of ID must show the same name and current address.

Your Virtual Mailbox Provider's Information

Have the CMRA's name and address ready. This information must match exactly what the provider gave you.

Preparing Form 1583 for Online Notarization

Step 1: Download and Review the Form

Make sure you have the most current version of Form 1583. The USPS updates the form periodically, and some virtual mailbox providers use their own branded version that includes their specific information.

Step 2: Complete All Fields

Fill in:

  • Box 1: Your name and the names of anyone else receiving mail
  • Box 2: Your residential or business address
  • Box 3: The CMRA's name and address
  • Box 4: Type of mail service requested
  • Box 5: Your identification information

Leave Boxes 6 and 7 (signature and date) blank.

Step 3: Scan or Photograph the Form

Create a clear PDF or image of the completed form. Make sure all text is readable and nothing is cut off.

The Online Notarization Process for Form 1583

Step 1: Start Your Session

Go to rushcitynotary.com/start and upload your Form 1583. Choose an instant session or schedule an appointment.

Step 2: Complete Identity Verification

Florida requires two-step verification for online notarization:

  • Credential analysis: Scan your primary government-issued photo ID
  • Knowledge-based authentication: Answer identity verification questions

Step 3: Show Both Forms of ID

During the video call, the notary will ask you to hold both your primary and secondary identification up to the camera. The notary verifies that the names and addresses match the form.

Step 4: Sign and Seal

You sign Form 1583 electronically while the notary watches. The notary then applies an electronic seal and digital certificate.

Step 5: Submit to Your Virtual Mailbox Provider

Download your notarized Form 1583 as a PDF and submit it to your virtual mailbox provider. Most providers accept the electronic version directly through their website or by email.

Common Mistakes on Form 1583

Mismatched Names

The name on your Form 1583 must exactly match the name on your primary ID. If your ID includes a middle name but the form does not, or vice versa, the CMRA may reject it.

Outdated Addresses

Your secondary ID must show your current address. If you recently moved and your utility bill or bank statement shows an old address, obtain an updated document before notarizing.

Signing Before the Session

If you sign Form 1583 before meeting the notary, the notarization is invalid. You must sign during the video session while the notary witnesses.

Using the Wrong CMRA Address

The CMRA name and address on the form must exactly match the provider's official information. Double-check this with your provider before submitting.

Cost and Timing

Rush Notary charges $25 per notary seal for Form 1583 notarization. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Once notarized, submit the form to your virtual mailbox provider immediately. Most providers activate your mailbox within 24 to 48 hours of receiving the notarized form.

Virtual Mailbox Providers That Accept Online-Notarized Form 1583

Most major virtual mailbox providers accept electronically notarized Form 1583, including:

  • Anytime Mailbox
  • Earth Class Mail
  • iPostal1
  • PostScan Mail
  • VirtualPostMail

If your provider has specific requirements, review their instructions before your notarization session.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use an expired ID for Form 1583?

No. Your primary ID must be current. An expired driver's license or passport is not acceptable.

Q: Do I need to notarize Form 1583 in person?

No. Remote online notarization is fully accepted for Form 1583. The electronic seal is legally valid for federal forms.

Q: What if I move and need to change my CMRA?

You must complete a new Form 1583 for the new provider and have it notarized again.

Q: Can a business use Form 1583?

Yes. Businesses can use Form 1583 to authorize a CMRA to receive commercial mail. The form should be signed by an authorized officer of the company.