> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.openletterconnect.com/olc-help-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.openletterconnect.com/olc-help-docs/delivery-status-and-tracking-analytics/understanding-returned-mail-yellow-nixie-labels.md).

# Understanding Returned Mail (Yellow “Nixie” Labels)

Returned mail happens when USPS can’t deliver your piece — often due to a bad address or the named person no longer living there. Open Letter Connect checks every mailing address against the USPS database to confirm it’s real, but USPS doesn’t verify who lives there. To improve deliverability, add “or Homeowner” to the name so it can go to anyone at that address.

<figure><img src="/files/YngbP20ANjeBd7NhAwGK" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### **What Returned Mail Means**

Returned mail is simply mail the USPS couldn’t deliver to the address provided. Instead of discarding it, USPS sends it back to the return address with a yellow “**Nixie**” label explaining why.

<figure><img src="/files/mHoG0cIf0OzM78bc0rxx" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Common Reasons for Returns

* The address is invalid or no longer active
* Recipient moved without a forwarding address
* Property is vacant
* Delivery was refused
* Missing apartment/unit number
* USPS database could not match the address

#### **How Open Letter Connect Helps**

* Runs every address through the USPS database to verify and standardize it before mailing
* Confirms the address exists — but not the occupant
* Adding “or Homeowner” to the name tells USPS to deliver to the current resident, reducing returns

#### Best Practices to Reduce Returned Mail

* Add “or Homeowner” to recipient names
* Regularly update your mailing list with new data
* Remove addresses from previous returns
* Collect full address details (including unit/apartment numbers)
* Avoid mailing to outdated lists