Key Takeaways
- Form 1583 must be notarized—this is a USPS requirement, not optional
- You can use local notaries, UPS stores, banks, or online notarization
- Two forms of ID are required (one must be government-issued photo ID)
- Remote Online Notarization (RON) is accepted and convenient for travelers
What is Form 1583?
USPS Form 1583 is the official "Application for Delivery of Mail Through Agent" that authorizes Your Tax Base to receive mail on your behalf. The USPS requires this form to be notarized to prevent mail fraud.
Common Issues and Solutions
Issue: "I can't find a notary"
Solutions:
- Banks: Most banks offer free notarization for customers—call ahead
- UPS Store: All locations have notaries (~$10-15 per signature)
- FedEx Office: Many locations offer notary services
- AAA offices: Free for members at many locations
- Libraries: Some public libraries offer free notarization
- Mobile notaries: Search "mobile notary near me"—they come to you
- Online notarization: Use a Remote Online Notarization service from anywhere
Issue: "The notary won't accept my ID"
Form 1583 requires two forms of identification:
| Primary ID (must be one) | Secondary ID (must be one) |
|---|---|
| Valid driver's license | Major credit card (signed) |
| State-issued ID card | Social Security card |
| US passport | Utility bill (recent) |
| US military ID | Home/vehicle insurance ID |
| University ID (photo) | Bank statement |
| Employer ID (photo) | Another government ID |
Issue: "The notary says the form is filled out incorrectly"
Common mistakes:
- Don't sign before the notary: You must sign in the notary's presence
- Use exact legal name: Match your ID exactly (middle name, Jr., etc.)
- Print clearly: Illegible writing may be rejected
- Complete all fields: Don't leave required sections blank
- Correct address format: Use the address exactly as we provided it
Issue: "The notary charges too much"
Cost-saving options:
- Your bank: Often free for account holders
- AAA: Free for members
- Credit unions: Usually free for members
- Public libraries: Some offer free notarization
- Hospital notaries: If you work in healthcare, check if your facility has one
Typical costs range from free to $25. Avoid notaries charging more than $25 per signature.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
If you're traveling, living abroad, or can't find a local notary, Remote Online Notarization is a great option:
How RON Works
- Upload your Form 1583 and ID documents to the RON platform
- Schedule a video call with a licensed notary
- Show your IDs on camera and answer identity verification questions
- Sign the document electronically while the notary watches
- Receive the notarized document digitally (we accept digital copies)
Recommended RON Services
- Notarize.com: ~$25, available 24/7
- NotaryCam: ~$25, quick turnaround
- PandaDoc Notary: ~$25, integrated platform
After Notarization
Once your Form 1583 is notarized:
- Upload to your dashboard: Scan or photograph the notarized form
- Keep the original: Store it safely for your records
- Wait for confirmation: We'll verify and activate your address within 1-3 business days
Still Having Issues?
If you've tried these solutions and still can't complete your Form 1583:
- Email support: [email protected] with details of your issue
- Include specifics: What's happening, what you've tried, any error messages
- Attach photos: If there's a form issue, photos help us diagnose