Do You Earn Rewards on a PO Box or Mailbox Rental?

The short answer: Yes, at your base rate. A USPS PO box or a private mailbox rental at a shipping store codes as a postal or shipping service, which is not a bonus category, so a flat-rate card earns the most. A business card that rewards shipping or office spending could do slightly better for a business mailbox.

How mailbox rentals code

A USPS PO box codes as a postal or government service, and a private mailbox at a shipping store codes as a shipping or business service. Neither is a standard bonus bucket, so most cards earn their base rate on the rental fee. This is related to how shipping and postage are treated. Renewing an annual box is an easy charge to set and forget.

Business mailboxes and shipping cards

If the mailbox is for a business, a card that rewards shipping or office spending could earn more than a flat card, and it keeps the expense clean for records. A private mailbox at a shipping chain may also code alongside your shipping there. Otherwise, expect the base rate.

The best card for a mailbox

With no dedicated bonus, a strong flat-rate card earns the most on a PO box or mailbox rental, or a shipping-rewarding card for a business. The fee is modest, so value points at a flat 1 cent and see options in best cash back cards.

Frequently asked questions

Does a PO box earn credit card rewards?
Yes, at your base rate. A PO box codes as a postal service and a private mailbox as a shipping service, neither of which is a bonus category.
Do mailbox rentals earn a shipping bonus?
On personal cards, usually not. A business card that rewards shipping or office spending could earn more on a business mailbox.
What card is best for a mailbox rental?
A strong flat-rate card, or a shipping-rewarding business card for a business mailbox. The fee is small, so keep it simple.

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Bryce Casson

Written by Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. About the author and how we rank cards.