How to Sell on Craigslist > How to Actually Get a Human at 1-800-ASK-USPS

How to Actually Get a Human at 1-800-ASK-USPS

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This post will teach you how to get a person and human being on the phone when you call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).

Below are many different ways that have worked to get a human on the phone. While many might not work anymore, you can always try it.

I try to keep up to date with the latest way to get past the automated crap. If you find this article and figure out the most recent way, leave a comment about how you did it.

I will see your comment and accept it and update this post with how you got it to work. We are a team against the ridiculous USPS phone system that want to help other people!

Before Calling, Try USPS Social Network Support

Since they always make it more difficult to get a real person on the phone, maybe try to contact them on social media.

To contact a live customer service person from USPS on Twitter click: USPS Help Twitter page and click “Message” to send them your message.

To contact a live customer service agent from USPS on Facebook go to this link: USPS Facebook page and click “Send message” to send your message.

Most Recent (February 2020)

Get to a live person fastest: For tracking a package / talking to a human about tracking a package. If you want to buy stamps, press 2 or say “Stamps” then say “Representative”. Listen and wait for it to speak. If you input anything before this it won’t do anything. Press 1 for tracking a package or say “Tracking.” Say “Representative” and you will be transferred to a rep

Surprisingly, it is actually quite easy to talk to a human on the phone when you call the USPS 1800 number.

I recently shipped an item through the United States Postal Service and the package was lost. But I had the tracking information, which was not working.

To make a long story short, I could not get a real person on the phone to help me with the situation. All I heard were repeated automated messages, which were not helpful.

Then, I decided to try a few things to get a human on the phone since I had already wasted an hour using the automated system.

PLEASE read the comments at the bottom of this post for other methods people have tried. If you have a method that is currently working, please post it in the comments so I can test and update this post!

Older Update on 11/22/2017 (History of Getting a Person at USPS)

Getting a USPS human now seems to be a bit easier than past methods.

Here’s what I did today and tested a few times and it worked, although it told me all agents were busy.

  1. Call the phone number.
  2. Enter your zip code and confirm.
  3. Say no to the privacy policy prompt.
  4. Wait a few seconds until the voice starts giving options.
  5. Say “carrier”.

That’s it! You will probably have to wait on hold for some time or request a call-back, but this is currently what seems to be working.

FYI: I do not work for USPS and I cannot do anything about it if the mail service puts you on hold for insane amounts of time or doesn’t call you back.

I am simply trying to give you options to get around the crappy automated phone service they have so you can talk to a person.

FYI, the info below does not seem to be working anymore. But I keep it here as archived information.

Thank you everyone for visiting this page to try and get a human on the phone at USPS. Today I tested my other methods listed further below, and they didn’t seem to work anymore.

It seems like they are constantly updating their system to make it more automated and make it more difficult to get a person on the phone.

So I tried another method. Sort of a brute-force attack on their system.

I tried it a few times and it worked each time. The automated voice did say all reps were busy, but that’s better than the crappy looping system they have.

Here’s what I did. Blast the automated system with zeros!

Seriously

I called the number. And after the Spanish prompt, I hit it with zeros.

PLEASE DON’T TRY THE BELOW 00000000000 METHOD. SORRY FOR THOSE IN THE COMMENTS SAYING IT DOESN’T WORK. I ONLY KEEP THAT TEXT HERE BECAUSE OF THE HIGH RANKING IN GOOGLE AND TRAFFIC THIS PAGE GETS. USE THE METHOD ABOVE. NOT THE ZERO METHOD. IF YOU SEE A GOOGLE SNIPPET WITH THE ZERO METHOD, GOOGLE IS INCORRECTLY SHOWING THE CORRECT METHOD. I CAN’T CONTROL WHAT GOOGLE DISPLAYS IN SNIPPETS BECAUSE THEY ARE SCRAPING CONTENT LIKE MINE TO DISPLAY AS THIER OWN.

So DON’T…

  1. Call the phone number.
  2. After the Spanish prompt, hit zero about ten times in a row, very quickly. Like this: 0000000000
  3. Listen to the automated voice. It will skip and get cut off because of all the requests you made.
  4. If it asks you to do an action after it finishes, hit zero about 15 times in a row, very quickly, like: 000000000000000
  5. Listen to the automated voice again. It will skip even more because of the amount of requests.
  6. If it asks you to do an action after it finishes, quickly hit zero about 20 times in a row, like: 00000000000000000000
  7. Then it should hopefully send you to the part that can connect you with a person, or at least schedule a call-back.

I hope this helps! The call-back message seems to usually say ‘about 40 minutes’, but it only takes a couple of minutes to do the steps above to get there.

USPS Phone Number

And thank you for commenting and keeping me updated when these strategies stop working. It seems like it changes a few times a year, and I try to keep everyone updated on this page.

UPDATE 7/6/2016: Based on a couple recent comments, looks like the USPS might have changed the phone system. I will try to figure out a new way to get a human and update this page.

This is what worked in the past:

First, dial 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) during their normal business hours.

M-F 8:00am-8:30pm ET | Sat – 8:00am-6:00pm ET | Sunday/Holidays – Closed

get human usps photo

UPDATE 3/09/2015: Thank you Chris and ace for your comments! I guess the US Postal Service has changed their automated system and my older method described further below no longer works.

Here is what seemed to be working.

  1. Call the phone number. After the Spanish prompt, press 0.
  2. Let the voice go through all the options. Press 6.
  3. Let the voice go through the next set of options. Press 4.
  4. Then it will talk about a policy. Press 2 to skip hearing it.
  5. You should then be in line to talk to someone.

Then Wait, Wait, Wait…

It may take awhile for someone to answer when calling 1-800-275-8777. That is on them, so please don’t be upset with me if it takes 10+ minutes to talk to someone or you get disconnected or something weird.

I am just trying to help you bypass all the automated crap to get a human on the phone. And be sure to have your tracking number available when someone does pick up.

USPS Customer Service Human: 1-800-275-8777

Thanks and keep me informed in the comments if I should add or edit any steps listed above.

The info below is old information and will not help you reach a human when calling the US Postal Service. I am only keeping it here because this post seems to be found a lot through Google and I don’t want to mess that up.

After you dial the 1-800 number, the recording will thank you and then ask if you want Spanish (para Espanol). Do not speak and do not push any buttons.  It will then say “Main Menu”. At this time, push 0 (zero).

Then the recording will say, “You’ve asked for customer service”.  Do not speak and do not push any buttons yet.  Wait until the recording says, “You can say”.  At this time, push the 0 (zero) button on your phone. Do not speak into the phone.

You will then get another message saying, “Would you like to hear the USPS privacy statement”.  Push 0 (zero) again. Do not speak into the phone.

Then you will be connected to a real live person!

United States Postal Service Customer Service Phone Number

You might get a message telling you that all of the customer service representatives are busy, but it is better to wait for a real person than to go through their automated system. Trust me!

Here are the steps simplified. ** Remember, do not speak into the phone and 0 (zero) is the only button you need to push! **

1. Dial 1-800-ASK-USPS (1800-275-8777)

2. When you hear “Main Menu”, push 0 (zero)

3. When you hear “You can say”, push 0 (zero)

4. After you hear “Would you like to hear the USPS privacy statement”, push 0 (zero)

5. Talk to a real person!

Check out my free tips to selling online with Craigslist and getting a human on the phone at1-800-275-8777 USPS.

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209 thoughts on “How to Actually Get a Human at 1-800-ASK-USPS”

  5. SK

    2/7/22

    Best way to speak to a person at USPS:
    1. wait through first set of menu options and then say ‘other’
    2. wait through second set of menu options and say ‘technical support’
    3. wait through 3rd set of menu options and say ‘technical support’ again!
    4. you will either be connected right away, OR be asked for a call back number.
    5. After providing your call back phone number, The usps will usually get back to you within an hour.

  8. kevin

    Well no luck at all getting thru to a human who knows anything but what a great time I had reading everyone else’s terrible experiences!!
    I am NOT alone!

    Thank you all!!
    .
    .
    .

  9. Roger Lee

    2 PACKAGE WAS DELIVERENT TO DELIVERED TO MY HOUSE./
    ik RAN OUT BUT THE DRIVER DID NOT STOP. i TOOK AT PHONE NUMBER FROM THE PACKAGE AND CALLED THE CORRECT CUSTOMER. i USED THE TELEPHONE NUMBER TO CALL UPS, THAR WAS A COMPLETE WASTE OF TIME,,, IT KEEP ASK ING ME FOR A TRACKING NUMBER WHICH i DID NMOT HAVE..THESE PEPLE ARE A WASTE OF TIME TOO

  10. Amy

    Something needs to be done about the trash they hire. First the mail man attempted to abuse my animal. When I told him threatening my animal was not necessary, he responded with he “would mess my dog up”. This is beyond unacceptable.

  14. Christine

    Just tried, here’s how I got a live human:
    Call 800-275-8777
    Listened to all prompts
    Once it started giving me options, I said “CARRIER”
    Then chose option 2
    Waited on hold for 30 minutes
    Bam. Someone answered.

  16. barry

    I actually saved 800-275-8777 to my contacts because they are so frustrating to deal with!!! Now I can easily call them and WAIT on HOLD!!!

  17. fed up ex

    their phone system is a joke i hate post office so much! i just want to know where my package is!!

  19. Julie R

    I just tried to call USPS using your method and several others I found on google. I finally got as far as getting put on hold for a representative. I had some housework to do so I set the phone down and proceeded to do my work. I figured I could wait them out and anyone who had anything important to say could call on my cell. I was on hold for 1 hour and 15 minutes before I gave up and of course still no resolution to my issue. Don’t we pay taxes to keep them open ? How can they be so rude to customers with a legitimate need to speak with them sheeeesh.

  23. Ryan

    worst service ever, I’ve waited on hold 3 times and was hung up on 3 times. i’ve now on hold for a 4th time going on 45 minutes, i’ll probably be hung up on again before actually talking to a person. I was connected to the post call survey though but I doubt anyone looks at those.

  26. Mike

    USPS Rep called me back. Sounded like she was Indian. Within 20 minutes I received two Social Security Scam phone calls. Obviously she gave out my number. Beware.

  27. Robin

    Been on hold now for 1.5 hours!!! No one can be this busy!!! I have called on multiple phones trying different things to get to a live person….no one will answer the phone!!! I need to speak with the post office in my area looking for some mail…that is all I need help with….GEEEZ

  29. Ted

    Dude, I’ve been getting increasingly angry the last few days trying to figure out how to talk to a real person until I found this thread. F the USPS, they make it as absolutely difficult to talk to a representative as they possibly can.

  30. Annette Kastner

    8/30/2019 On Hold for about 45 minutes – 1 hour. The USPS is apparently using an Indian call center for customer service. They can only write up my request and get it to the local delivery service. Will take 2-3 business days (a week, due to the holiday) for someone to maybe get back to me and confirm whether my hold mail was delivered or not (2 days late now), so I can know whether it’s been delivered and stolen and report to the police, or whether it’s not been delivered.

    My first contact was to an online chat, that turned out to be USPS technical help only. They provided a number for the local post office that was a non working number when I called it.

  31. Julie Robinson

    I tried several times to no avail. Then read the stamps thing. I pressed the button for stamps..
    Then I said representative. Got a HUMAN!!!! I didnt tell him I needed stamps but apologized and said I didnt know if I was in the right place or not. He was very nice and helped me track an international package. Good Luck!!!!

  33. Pam

    It’s best to call your local post office, if you can get your hands on the number, to avoid the torturous experience that is the USPS toll free number and for answers to questions. The toll free phone number, instituted shortly after the so-called “911” terrorist attack, is seemingly pointless. The USPS website is really no better. I searched and searched the site for simple answers to questions about “registered mail” and could find none.

  34. F$%^k THE USPS!!!

    MOST USELESS CUSTOMER SERVICE EVER!!! THEN AGAIN, LOOK WHO THE USPS HIRES, SHOCKER!! I AGREE WITH EVERYONE THAT SAID. “NO ONE IS THAT BUSY!!” THERE IS NO OTHER CUSTOMER SERVICE ANYWHERE THAT HAS A WAIT TIME OF 1 HR 45 MINUTES MINIMUM and then hangs-up on you.

    What a joke!!!!! Lazy people!! No accountability!!! That is the problem. I wish the USPS would have just folded, but unfortunately, Amazon pulled them out of their self-made hole. They should learn from Amazon…of course, they won’t!!! Useless group of slackers!!!!

    Maybe they should just fire the slugs that work at the post office and start over. Government employees are the laziest, most worthless bunch of idiots. I HATE THE USPS!! I NEVER USE THEM MYSELF ANYMORE, BUT SOME COMPANIES STILL SHIP THROUGH THEM…NOT SURE WHY!!!!

    USPS CUSTOMER SERVICE GRADE: F

  35. Nitesh

    The easiest way i found was to just go for the other option when the operator tells you if you if want anything else press this. Keep on going for the other option and eventually it will connect you to a real human.

  37. Steve

    Thank you for posting this. I’m currently on a 45 minute hold but I may actually reach a human!
    As of 4/25/2019 instead of tracking say Package to get to the tracking menu.

  38. Todd

    04-24-2019

    I started to go through the process of listening to the pre-recorded crap, then getting into the tracking part… But that just was pushing my buttons !!!

    So I hit the (*) to get back to the very beginning of their crap, and just started hammering on those 0’s… And within just a few minutes I was placed on hold (they said about 40 minutes, but ended up being longer actually), but I did get to talk to a real person then…

  39. Deedee

    Best way to speak to a person at USPS:
    1. wait through first set of menu options and then say ‘other’
    2. wait through second set of menu options and say ‘technical support’
    3. wait through 3rd set of menu options and say ‘technical support’ again!
    4. you will either be connected right away, OR be asked for a call back number.
    5. After providing your call back phone number, The usps will usually get back to you within an hour.

  40. Carol Rodriguez

    This is ridiculous I can’t get to a representive the mean doesn’t help at all I need to talk to a real person

  41. John Wayne

    I HATE USPS
    I HATE calling 18002758777 phone number. A bunch of STUPID IDIOTS that CAN NEVER F’ING HELP ME.

  44. Dave

    I wanted to access the carrier part of their automated system and it transferred me to the tracking system each time I tried. So I got a brilliant idea: try to buy something from them (stamps)! I got to a rep immediately. This is a government agency treating us this way.

  46. Moose Hacili

    I did an address change online received confirmation that I would begin seeing mail at my new address on 7/2/18. 1 month later still no mail. When I was finally able to get a human on the phone at the Vista Blvd P.O Sparks NV I asked why I was not receiving mail and the supervisor threatened to hang up on me. He then told me that the neiborhood carrier made the declaration that the address was vacant? How the hell is it up to her? I did everything necessary and they took the word of a carrier after I made the change on line as directed by the USPS? After the supervisor told me that they would speak with her about it, mail delivery would start. So I got 1 months worth of mail and suddenly when I tried opening my mailbox I found that someone shoved something in the key hole and broke it off so I could not open my mailbox. Two trips to the P.O. and I was told my mail would be held there, I could pick it up there and that the lock would be repaired. On my 3rd trip not only was my mail not being held at the P.O. I was told that the carrier was continuing to deliver mail to a mailbox that cannot be opened and they had not scheduled a lock replacement at all. HOW THE HELL AM I SUPPOSED TO GET MY MAIL?!?!. WE CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THIS AGENCY THAT RECORED 66 BILLION DOLLARS IN LOSSES SINCE 2007. WHO DO I TALK TO? HOW DO I GET MY MAIL? HOW THE HELL ARE THEY ALLOWED TO DO THIS TO ME?

  47. I Ruiz

    I Tried this method listed in the article and it work I was able to reach the customer service option and requested a call back, which I got after 40 minutes. I was able to speak to a real person and inquire about my missing packages.
    This is the one I used
    1.-Call the phone number. 1-800-275-8777 After the Spanish prompt, press 0.
    2.-Let the voice go through all the options. Press 6.
    3.- Let the voice go through the next set of options. Press 4.
    4.- Then it will talk about a policy. Press 2 to skip hearing it.
    5.-You should then be in line to talk to someone.

  49. ChicoMike

    08/31/2018 I realize none of this is your fault. I have tried each and every method as described above. Finally, I call their phone at 800-275-8777. After being asked questions I finally got to “technical support.” A recording stated hold to see if a representative was available. Less than a minute later the recording stated “no one is available at this time. Please call back later and the call was terminated by the USPS. In desperation, I called the toll free # above and after lengthy recordings I was told wait time would be 41 minutes to an hour or more. Nothing about requesting a call back just the option to hold or hang-up. I also tried every email on their site all of which Yahoo mail indicated incorrect email address. What is going on?

  50. John

    The one time I used USPS rather than UPS, these bozos lost my package. But that’s not the worst of it.

    You can’t speak to a human at USPS. terrible customer service.

    I filled out the forms on their customer service email service. Complete 3 pages and comments, hit submit, and I get a message telling me that the form could not be submitted, try again later.

    My receipt tells me they want to serve me better, and provides a site for feedback. Enter that site in broswer – it doesn’t exist.

    Time to stop subsiding these bozos.

  51. Sydney

    This works for me, and I call at least once a week working customer service:

    Get to the Tracking/package menu. Say “representative” “customer support/service” “operator” and the automated reply will say “I think you want to speak with a representative, is this correct?”

    Then sit on the phone for an hour listening to the 3 song cycle of my nightmares. Been trying to find some sort of “call back app” or something of the sort.. Since USPS obviously hates their customers (seen with them taking away the call back option).

    Before finding this method, I would get hung up on constantly while trying to ask for a rep or pressing endless zeroes.

  52. Diana Tanner

    I think that they have removed the feature of letting you leave a callback number. Has anybody who tried recently been able to leave their number? I’d sure like to know. Thanks.

  54. George Hanover

    All on my own, I tried saying “carrier”, and they naturally tried redirecting me to the tracking department.

    The upshot is USPS is using call centres in India. They know,Americans hate that, but I happen to be able to speak Hindi and Bengali.

    So the Indian operator said their system was down and they couldn’t help.

    All I was trying to do was,ask if they could provide me with an alternate local USPS number.

    USPS DOES NOT WANT CUSTOMERS CALLING THEM.

  55. Cassidy

    I followed Dee Dee’s advice on asking for technical support. I got the option for a call back. It’s not resolved…but it’s something.

  56. Nancy

    Tracking said it was brought back to the post office at request of customer. Never happened! I wasn’t able to get through with zeros: “Customer Service” put me into “call you back;” got a call form national USPS who said to call my local PO (which is what I had done). Was then told my package was sent back because I didn’t pick it up. WHAAT! Tried calling another township PO to see if they could get me some info. A Pharmacy message started asking questions, so I hung up and dialed again: same thing. Then noticed all the PO’s in the area have the same #. Which apparently goes to a Pharmacy. Our tax dollars at work. No one at the Post Office will answer the phones.

  57. Sonja Jefferson

    what is wrong with the system? Still on hold and it’s been 31:27 and automated stated it would be 9 to 14 minute hold.

  58. Natalie

    I hate them! they’re the worst ever! never accept phone calls and havent received my package and its been a week of delay!!!!!!!!

  59. Kerry Powell

    This is totally jacked up! The need to have real live people to answer our calls regarding items we paid for and had shipped and it goes thru this jacked up mail service called USPS. I moved into a new place in August and put in the dmail box saying the only 2 people who live here don’t put anyone else’s in this box and the still keep putting other mail in my box why are the people are so incompetent! I cant even get my box its been in February 28, 2018 at 8:47 pm
    Departed Shipping Partner Facility, USPS Awaiting Item GRAND PRAIRIE, TX 75050. Whats is wrong with this! It should of been sent out the next day! wow UPS, FED EX gets all the mail they can out over 24 hours unless there is a problem like damage package or something else. I worked at both of them. I am very upset with this stupid auto system!!!!!!!!!

  60. Dee Thomas

    Best way to speak to a person at USPS:
    1. wait through first set of menu options and then say ‘other’
    2. wait through second set of menu options and say ‘technical support’
    3. wait through 3rd set of menu options and say ‘technical support’ again!
    4. you will either be connected right away, OR be asked for a call back number.
    5. After providing your call back phone number, The usps will usually get back to you within an hour.

  61. Delicia MCCLENDON

    They have you on hold for 1hr and 50 minutes every time.. I hate USPS.. their workers are thieves and incompetent…..

  62. Siqin Zhou

    USPS has the worst customer service I ever experienced. Terrible phone call system and long waiting time. I did not receive my package but it showed “delivered” on USPS website. I filed the case on the website and called them one week ago and they just asked me to wait for their people contact me. Now, one week passed, nobody helped me and I still cannot find my package. Will never use USPS if it’s possible.

  63. Vickie

    Thought this might be helpful.

    I tried uncessfully to reach 2 post offices in NM to find out where the heck two packages were. No matter what time I called the post offices, NO ONE ever answered. I was beyond livid. And, of course, the automated line never gave up a real live human being either. I ended up filing a complaint on the usps inspector general’s website on Saturday around 4pm. I supplied all the information regarding the packages. I figured I might get a response at some point in the very distant future. I was SHOCKED when I got a response with detailed information of where my packages were mid day on Sunday. Might be worth a try. It isn’t an immediate response, but the fact that I had already spent several days trying to track down these packages, results in less than 24 hrs on the weekend was a very pleasant surprise.

  64. Carole

    I am holding for 1 hr and 35 min initially supposed to be 40 to 50 min now they will be closing at 8:30 and I will guarantee no one will answer my call! I am ready to have a breakdown what kind of a system do they have here???????????????????

  65. Hua Liang

    non human told me to wait about 2.5 -3 hours. People are not free like those customer support people. You should value customers time. They have some loop in their system which you would never get the human to answer the phone. This is ridiculous.

  66. Bella

    After the automated voice couldn’t understand me saying my tracking number about six times it finally transferred me to a human. My god.

  67. Darryl Lindley

    I finally was directed to an operator by saying “carrier”, but i have been on hold for 60 minutes now and there seems to be no end

  68. Andrew Thompson

    None of these worked for me. The only way I got to a person was calling the local post office directly. If necessary they can arrange a call back.

  69. Crystal

    I was waiting for 1 hour and 30 min on the phone, finally got hold of someone, she told me she can’t help me. I was so pissed. Their service and system are horrible. This time I finally get to somewhere they can call me back without waiting on the phone. What I did is
    Q
    1. Press 0 after Spanish voice
    2. When voice started, press 6
    3. Then press 4 (seems not working for me so I did one more step)
    4. Press 2
    Finally let me enter my phone number to call me back. I am still waiting for call back but better than wait over one hour on the phone

  70. Aja

    10/19/17

    Said “Carrier” as they started going through the selections and they asked for my tracking number, I gave it, and am now waiting AN HOUR AND 50 MINUTES to speak to a live person. Seriously. That’s how long they said the wait would be. Wtf.

  71. Carol

    This is what worked for me: After pressing key following initial language prompt, don’t select any other keys, just stay on the line through all of the automated voice recording and it will get you to a customer service agent. But there will be quite a wait

  72. israel will prevail

    after getting frustrated with the answering machine, i googled for this page.
    tried saying “carrier” after confirming my zip code. now waiting for 30minutes to speak to an agent

  73. Tiffany

    What has been working for me (I work in CS) is…. *zipcode* (miscallaneous no’s) Package, Tracking, (listen,) SPEAK TO AGENT (x2), press 0, SPEAK TO AGENT (x2), press 0. Eventually it gives up. BUT NEVER AGREE To tracking additional packages and don’t say no. It hangs up on you if you do.

  74. EllieErin

    As of 8/5/17 it’s fairly easy to get into the queue it doesn’t allow you to schedule a call back: I have to wait on hold with the WORST hold music in history. It sounds like a cassette tape from 1980 that’s been re-recorded 200 times.

    When I got into the queue it told me my hold time would be between one hour and 15 minutes, and one and a half hours. Still waiting.

  76. Roger

    It WORKED!!! Do the “000000000” then “000000000000000” then “0000000000000000000000000” and you will FINALLY be connected to another recording that allows you to get a call back, usually 45 mins. It sucks but it works.

  77. Mark Klym

    This post was about as helpful as ah refrigerator at the North Pole. After saying “agent” it went right back into the “please listen to our menu options.” The best answer, shut down the USPS and let a private company do our courier servicing.

  79. Juan V.

    Saying agent didn’t work for me so I just let the voice loop through the menu options a couple of times without saying or pressing anything and eventually they transferred me to an agent.

  80. angry customer

    2/16/17: I called USPS due to a priority mail package being sent to Puerto Rico from IL instead of Seattle where I live (seriously?). I pressed “0” at each voice prompt I got when I called the USPS number and it kept telling me that it was not a valid entry/response but after 2 or 3 times of that, it then went to the queue for a live CSR, unfortunately with a 20-30 min wait time. Seems like just a few years ago that it was not hard to get through to USPS on the phone, guess they must be downsizing.

  81. USPS LIVE PERSON SUCCESS

    **** CONFIRMED 2/2017 ****
    After calling in and tracking a real tracking number, I picked the option to track another package. I entered some 0’s for this next tracking number ( 3 or 4 0’s and then waited it out). It will tell you it’s wrong and prompt you to enter another number. Just wait and do nothing. After about a minute of waiting, the automated operator put me in rotation for either holding or a call back. Now, i’m on a 10 minute hold!

  82. Anon

    Saying “agent” didn’t work… I had to lie and say technical support across 3 menus and now my wait time is 24 to 30 minutes to talk to someone that I don’t even need to talk to. I’m hoping they can put me in touch with someone who can help me as the postal service has literally lost my passport.

  84. just me

    Absolutely hate USPS now. My package from eBay was supposed to be delivered 2-3 days ago (depending to email from eBay or USPS site). It stayed in the city which is only 20min from house for 6 days! and finally when it got to my city and was out for delivery they canceled it because of “hazardous weather” when everybody is driving here just fine even when it was snowing here. I even saw UPS driving by my house (not sure but Fedex too I think), why can’t USPS deliver then. Now tracking on their website show “No Access” under status… with “employee did not have access to the delivery location”

    I’ve been trying to call them for a few days by now, and finally!!! I’m getting someone to talk with (been waiting so far for 21min).

    Zeros didn’t work for me, Jay’s comment from above did, almost, when I said “customer support” did work but “customer service” did

  85. Jimmy D.

    2/7/17 – They seem to have changed the the system and made it harder to get through. The 0 trick no longer works, and saying “agent” right off the bat does not work. (I also used to be able to get through by repeatedly saying “complaint”, this is no longer effective!)

    Today I was able to get through with the following steps:
    -Go through the yes/no steps of privacy policy, surveys, etc until you get to the Main Menu.
    -On main menu, say tracking (option 1)
    -It may ask you yes/no if you are calling about a specific tracking number, say no.
    -When it (finally) asks for your tracking number say “Agent”. It will then ask “Ok you would like to speak with an agent” – at that point just follow whatever steps it asks you and you will eventually be put in their traditional call Que (you know, the one where you end up waiting for the rest of your life to speak to someone who has NO IDEA how to actually help you.)

    Seriously, I think the people they hire at these call centers, while sometimes pleasant, have no ability to actually go outside of the strict and robotic procedure they are given.

    Truth be told, you might be better off making an account on the website and opening an inquiry/claim there. After that, pick a random deity/cult, become the equivalent of said deity/cult’s pope, and then pray that you actually get some form of positive resolution. So far, this is the only method that I’ve found that actually works. (Scientology was a dead-end. I’d skip this deity if I were you, there were only after my money).

    Hopefully this helps make this extremely frustrating and cryptic process easier for others!

  86. HAW

    1/28/2107
    Wow, I have never been as frustrated with an automated system as I am with the USPS system. Used the following: go through the prompts of tracking a package. Once it asks if you want to track another package, start pressing zero slowly in succession waiting for the automated system to respond in between each. It took me pressing zero 3 or 4 times till it put me in queue for a rep! Then it told me I have a 34-51 minute wait. I utilized the call back option. Received a call after 2 hours and then waited another 35 minutes to speak to a person. She was very pleasant and helpful. As I said, wow, what an experience!!!!!

  87. Michael

    This method finally worked for me (on 1/27/17):
    To get to a representative, go through the prompts of tracking a package. Once it asks if you want to track another package, start pressing zero slowly in succession waiting for the automated system to respond in between each.

  88. Deb

    I don’t think I’ve ever gotten so angry with a machine before. It took me about 30 minutes of trying every different tactic I could find online and the dumb machine just kept saying “I’m sorry, I didn’t get that”. I finally just pushed 0 about 20+ times out of frustration and the machine told me I’d be connected with a rep… in 50 MINUTES. So… 50 minutes later a woman gets on the phone, transfers me to someone else and that someone else tells me that she has no idea why my package with a printed Etsy label addressed to CANADA was shipped to ITALY. Oh, and there was absolutely nothing she could do to help. That’s the U.S. Government for ya.

  89. WheresMyPackage

    1/25/17
    After calling 10 times and reading several online tips, I tried what someone here suggested and said, “agent” when prompted for the tracking number. I had to say it twice, but was finally connected to an agent.

  91. Lashay

    i pressed a bunch of zeros and kept saying agent but that didnt work, when i finally said customer service it worked and im on hold now 01/14/2017

  92. jas

    I don’t recall it ever being this difficult. The zero thing did not work, basically what “Jake” had said did work, albeit on the second try as the first time it said it was connecting me to an agent then the system bumped me back to the main menu.
    1. Track a package
    2. type your tracking number
    3. when it asks if you want to track another package
    I said “agent” and it finally tells me to wait 30-40 mins. I fought with the system for 20 minutes. Why is the wait so long if it is so hard to speak with someone? Is there that many people who all do this t get through these days?

  93. drew wilson

    the “00000000000000” trick works but there is no algorithm to it, you just have to randomly punch “0” a bunch during any prompt the machine gives you. Eventually she gives you a long unheard of response about how she can’t understand you and “would you like to speak to an agent”. Say yes. This is after 5min of trying btw. This was tested on 1/07/2017

  95. Sim

    I went through the same thing as all of you did. Gosh I never got this angry over an answer machine before. The lady frustrated me to no end. I did tried the zero thing, but it didn’t work for me. I swear they programmed her to be stubborn as hell. After many tries, this was what worked for me. I chose tracking as the option. When she asked my tracking number, I told her the number. Somehow she never got the number right. I don’t know why, but this actually turned out to be my saving grace. I believed after two or three times, she gave up and FINALLY, transfer me to the customer service rep. She will ask you to choose from waiting on the phone or letting them call you back. I chose wait, and I ended waiting for 17 to 20 minutes. So guys, try to tell her the wrong tracking number so she will be confused and transfer you to a rep. I hope this will be helpful to anyone who is trying to get in touch with a real person as it did work for me. Good luck!

  96. Laura

    As of 12/27/16
    After 30 minutes of trying everyone’s suggestions this is what worked:

    To get to a representative, go through the prompts of tracking a package. Once it asks if you want to track another package, start pressing zero slowly in succession waiting for the automated system to respond in between each. It took me pressing zero 3 times till it put me in queue for a rep! Then it told me I have a 16 minute wait.

  97. casey

    The 0000000000000 (zero) thing and saying “agent” a ton of times actually worked. I am on hold now, it’s been about 30 minutes so far. Don’t give up folks

    12/27/16

  98. Meg

    OMG TOOK ME FOREVER!!!! BUT I FINALLY GOT SOMEONE!! I FOLLOWED THE STEPS BUT SAID “TRACKING” FIRST WHEN THE OPTIONS MENU CAME UP, THEN WHEN IT ASKED ME TO ENTER MY TRACKING NUMBER I SAID “AGENT” AND THEN IT ASKED IF I WANTED TO BE CONNECTED TO AN AGENT PLEASE SAY YES OR NO!! Ridiculous !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now I am on hold for who knows how long…

  104. Jack

    To get to a representative, go through the prompts of tracking a package. Once it asks if you want to track another package, start pressing zero slowly in succession waiting for the automated system to respond in between each. It took me pressing zero 3 times till it put me in queue for a rep!

  106. Brianna

    So the endless amount of 0s didn’t work and I got super frustrated with the machine when it asked was there anything it could do for me I sarcastically said I would like to talk to a human and it actually worked and directed me to an agent after a few prompts. Although it took a long time to get connected to an agent.

  107. Jacob

    After I called it said “Does your tracking number end in…” then I pressed 0. It immediately connected me to an operator (call back list). Thanks for the tips though!

  109. Stephanie

    I just tried calling the number and after the spanish prompt, I hit 0. I was redirected to wait between 40-60 mins before speaking with someone. Hope this helps!

  110. Jake

    As of 8/17/16 this does not work but I was able to get in touch with a human relatively easy.
    1. Track a package
    2. type your tracking number
    3. when it asks if you want to track another package say “customer support”
    4. you be connected then

  111. James

    At the main menu say “other” and then say “fraud”. It connects you with a real person who will connect you with another real person if the problem isn’t fraud related.

  113. Ella

    NEW UPDATE ON GETTING CONNECTED CURRENT AS OF 7/30/2016

    I tried the ‘0’ trick and the ‘6 then 4’ trick & neither one worked … Here’s what DID work though!

    I gave the automated lady my zip code, I said ‘no the the privacy thing, and then let her go through the whole rigamaro list of options.

    Then I simply said ‘Representative’ she then asked ‘You would like to speak with an agent?” and gave me a couple options to select from.

    I said ‘Something Else’. I sat on hold for about 30 minutes, and then was connected with THE NICEST agent I have ever talked to (I am sure it helped that I was sweet as honey to her – she helped correct the address error on my package so that I will be able to receive it next week – instead of it being RTS) .

    Good Luck – and remember (I’ve learned this from working in a call center) Kill ’em with kindness. these people are usually over-worked and just want to talk to someone nice for a change! – and they will usually go above and beyond for the customer that IS nice to them…

  114. Carmen

    This page was somewhat helpful. The method you stated does not work anymore but for anyone reading this. This is how I got the option to wait in line or receive a call back.
    1. Say or write in your zip code
    2. Say “Yes” for correct zip code or press number 1
    3. Say “No” or press number 2
    4. Say package or press 1
    5. Start pressing zeros right away as many as you like but I pressed 15 zeros first: 000000000000000
    6. When the voice starts talking right away press more zeros, I did 20 this time:
    00000000000000000000
    7. The voice is going to start talking after a pause and you press zeros again right away. This time I did 30:
    000000000000000000000000000000
    8. After a pause, the voice will tell you that they need a valid tracking number etc to better serve you and that they are going to transfer you.
    9. Good job, you did it! Just wait in line or choose the option to get a call back by leaving your number and name.

    Hope this helps you guys, cause I was really frustrated for about 40 minutes! 🙄

  115. Nyob

    7-27-2016: This worked for me today.

    I went through all the prompts. When it got to the reason for my call, I said “redelivery.”

    When it asked for a tracking number, I said random numbers until it cut me off and said that was an invalid number.

    It asked me for the tracking number again. I did the same thing. The voice cut me off. It said I’d reached the maximum number of attempts. Then it gave me the option to hold for customer service or give my phone number for a callback.

    I chose to hold. 17 minutes later, I was talking to a native-english-speaking PERSON. : D

  116. Bob

    Didn’t work for me. 7/20/16

    Go to the “fraud” selection and you get a human. Just tell them the USPS system is fraudulent for not having the menu item you need and the will help you…

  117. Traci

    OK, got a live person by hitting the number for ‘ Report Fraud ‘. 3 minute wait. I asked if this was the general customer service number (I was going to hang up if it wasn’t) and the nice lady said yes.

  119. duh

    You are wrong. It still works, just a little differently. I pressed 3 to go to mail, and then hit a bunch of ZEROs, then it still worked. Be creative folks. Think outside the box.

  120. Alison

    As of 7/1/16, this is no longer working. I blasted them with about a million 0’s to no avail. The system eventually just hangs up on you. I am SO FRUSTRATED.

  121. Ashley

    The zero method has not been working for me at all 🙁 I’ve blasted that automated lady with zeros a ton of times and she just keeps saying “I see you’ve asked for customer service, but that option isnt available until you’ve selected a reason for your call”, even after selecting and blasting more zeroes it still doesn’t work, eventually it just says “have a nice day” and hangs up on you. It absolutely will not put me through to a representative >:(

  123. Amorette

    Youre an angel….I’ve been trying to figure this out for like a solid day. Still works 6/8/16

  124. jenive

    It worked my mom was getting so frustrated and I googled this up and since it worked she gave me $20 my lucky day!

  130. AD

    Wow, thanks so much for sharing! I was trying to find out why there was a delivery exception and could not get a live person.

    The 0000000000 trick definitely worked.

    Bless your heart!

  131. Henry Sherwood

    I had to do this and it finally worked. At this moment, I’m on the phone and still no results for my pkg.

  132. Frustrated

    Tried it today, and it works! Currently waiting on hold for the past 8-10 minutes, but it beats the loop that repeats what you can read on the website! Thanks so much.

  133. KimB

    Thank you soooo much, the zero-blasting did it and I giggled like a schoolgirl having beat the system lol. I hate that thing, it’s the worst ever. Thanks again.

  135. Joe

    before I found this post I was just pressing zero one time after each prompt and it didn’t work. I can’t believe this worked, but I’m thankful it did. What a joke!

  136. Dina

    Thank you! It really worked. I just bombarded them with zeros, did not count how many. Very soon was in line for an operator. First time in my life it took just a minute to get there.

  137. Dior

    Hi, just wanted to say the second method did work for me 🙂 after I pressed those numbers, the automated voice asked me one more thing and after I didn’t say anything, connected me thorugh. Thanks, this helped a bunch!!

  141. Lovie

    Thank you. I was able to FINALLY get through after following your advice from 2/25 to blast the automated line with zeros. I didn’t say a word (it’s a trap). I just blasted it with about 50 zeros and I finally got put in the queue to speak to a live rep.

    It’s a shame that we have to perform all these jedi – ninja – cirque du soleil tricks to get a human being on the phone. And they have the nerve to announce a rate increase today!!! (4/11).

    I bet they read this blog to see how we’re getting through so they can keep fixing their automated system to keep us locked out. It’s weird that every time someone posts a way to get a real person, it doesn’t work anymore a month later.

  142. Jubilee Grace

    Thank you Nick,

    I was able to get through with your 000000000 routine. My package’s tracking number has said, “Out for delivery” and after several days, the package’s tracking has not been updated or delivered. It’s been at my local post office for days and for some reason, delayed. So speaking to a human being is imperative. My local post office keeps their phone disconnected because they receive so many calls. I’m not able to drive to the post office during their normal business hours, so my only option was the national line.

    It’s a gift for my mother and it’s unfortunate the issues I’ve encountered with the package. 🙂 I’m on hold as we speak because of your help. Thank you again.

  144. matthew kopnicky

    I got directly to a human by pressing 0 once the automated service picked up. i did not wait to hear any options. just pressed 0. 4/1/16

  148. CEhler

    Blasting with 0’s sounds like the most ridiculous thing in the world but it actually worked holy crap! (waiting for a call back now) Thank you so much!

  158. Kimberly

    12/18/15
    After probably 100 zeros, I was able to put myself on the call list. Let’s see if they call me back in 35-53 minutes as they say. Thank you so much for the information!

  159. Heidi

    The zero trick worked. Also, after my call I called the number that had called me back which was 678-279-7980 (in Georgia) just to see what would happen and it just went straight to the part about getting a call back w/o having to push all the zeros. 12/18/15

  162. Shell

    I’ve been trying to reach a human for days! Regardless of what I answered or pressed I always got the “We’re sorry a customer service agent isn’t available”… So I googled and came across this thread. I called again and just kept hitting 000000 for everything. I have now been on hold 27 minutes still waiting on a human, BUT at least I’m not listening to that automated crap anymore! 🙂

  164. Jay

    I just kept telling the system ‘I need a person.’ In between I would say something silly like ‘f*** off,’ or ‘bazookaloo.’ After about 3 minutes, said it was transferring me to a live agent, but it needed to know if this call was regarding a domestic or international mailing.
    I just used the option for someone to call me back – we will see if that was a mistake!

  168. Cass

    (2015)
    Seems like it has changed now…

    Press 5 “All other delivery questions”

    Then

    Press 5 “Other delivery questions”

    Then

    Press 2 (to skip privacy statement)

    I requested a call back since the wait was 28-42 minutes.

  169. Priscilla

    Been on hold for 45 minutes. I hate these A-holes. It’s been 30 days since I forwarded my mail and haven’t gotten anything at the new address. All I get is a busy signal at the local post office and the general USPS line is all automated and the hold message brags about how convenient their mail forwarding is…. Ha! What a crock.

  173. stone

    Excellent guide! i spent around 10-15 minutes clicking buttons spitting out phrases only to be misunderstood by the automated voice every other time until i stumbled upon this little diddly , very much appreciated this is what the internet was made for to help one another haha peace !

  174. Liz

    As of 8/04/2015, I managed to get through to customer service but not exactly with any of the instructions above- I was trying to dispute a delivery claim (aka USPS says a package is delivered and I think Not), and I hit 0 after the español option, then the robot told me that it can tell I’m trying to reach customer service but I have to specify my problem first, so I did as it told me (“delivery status” I think), and then hit 0 again, and it said it needed my tracking # before it could take me to a human, so I gave it my tracking # and then it gave me all this useless delivery information and I kept interrupting it with 0 and it stopped for a second and then ignored me and kept saying the info it was saying, so I kept hitting 0 every few seconds and EVENTUALLY! It gave up and sent me to customer service.

    I’m sure this process won’t be the same for everyone, but a good default is finding the balance between hitting 0 insistently and cooperating with what the bot is asking of you. Good luck.

  175. Marianne G.

    As of 07/22/15 I just kept pressing 0, 0, 0, 0, 0 I don’t know how many times.

    Even when the voice said no representatives could help me until I gave further information.
    What did I press? —> 0.

    Keep doing it until the privacy statement is brought up. Now I am sitting here waiting for someone to pick up. We will see how long this takes.

    It is pitiful. And I ALWAYS go to USPS first to give them my business, as I know they are sinking fast.

    This phone call has to do with a supposedly delivered certified/registered receipt mail piece concerning my student loans. My nursing school says they never received the paperwork and I never received the green slip back in the mail. USPS says it was delivered. I just may not be getting my loans for this upcoming semester. All because I felt sorry for the underdog and utilized their services.

    Never again.

  176. Daryl

    It still works!
    Just have to keep on repeating the process when it says “you can say” press 0.
    Thanks for the help!!!!

  179. Lori

    Okay. I pushed 0 about 10 times, sometimes 3 in a row, sometimes one at a time ignoring prompts and finally the prompt started talking about privacy act and then asked if I wanted to heat the “entire privacy act” (a#@holes) I said NO and then was put through to customer service. However I am now on hold and will prob end up hanging up. I think I’m going to start JUST using UPS or FedEx. seriously. I’m done with this.

  180. ace

    Second Chris’ comment – After espanol prompt, say help or press 0. It will ask you to be more specific and then list some options

    At this list press 6 for ‘other options’ – Then press 4 for help with something else. You will be connected to customer service – after that its a matter of waiting for the person to come online..

  181. Chris

    This post doesn’t work anymore or takes a lot longer to reach a live person. This is what I have done in the last couple of days:

    After getting past the espanol language prompt, the automated message will ask you how they can help you. Just state “help”.

    It will then ask you to be more specific, just say “help” again.

    The automated message will then give you ideas for help topics to say or a number to press. Press “5” to go to other help topics.

    The automated message will then give you more ideas. Just say “help with something else” and then you’ll be connected and placed on hold for a live person. expect to wait 10 minutes or more.

  183. Carol

    Thank you for this. After 8 minutes I got an actual person. Unfortunately, the person was of no help and gave me the local USPS consumer affairs phone number. I called them and the only option they have is to leave your name, phone number, and message and they’ll call you back. I won’t hold my breath waiting for the call back.

  185. Dave

    Awesome. I needed to press 0 about 12 times (I lost count) but then I waited for all of… 15 seconds.

    My “tracked” mail was promised for delivery 4 days ago. Ended up STUCK in their system for 4 days. Now it’s been “delivered” for 4 hours and nowhere to be found!

    3 days ago I tried calling and the best I could do was wait on hold in their technical assistance number. ABSOLUTE WORST VOICE MENU OPTION EVER. To repeat – *they* mis-directed *and* mis-delivered something and *their* online contact number simply says that – despite being during their stated hours – nobody is available. WOW.

    At least now I have a confirmation number. Along with a promise that somebody will contact me within 24 hours. Not exactly holding my breath there. @nickg: Thank You!

  186. USPS is such a joke

    There is a reason they are failing. Oh wait who runs them. I went through all the prompts and couldn’t even run reach a live person until I found this site. I’m happy UPS and Fedex are running them out of town.

  187. JanineC

    Finally figured it out just as I found this website with the answer…oh well! thank you anyway!

    Teleprompters should all be outlawed as far as I am concerned. They are detrimental to one’s health and can lead to long term anger issues!!! 🙂

  195. fofa

    NO! It still works! I just used it and got through like a charm!!!! The old ZERO advice still works! What a doll to put this here! Thanks!

  197. Anon

    Very neat, just tried it today and it still works. Who knew it could be that easy to beat the USPS machine.

  199. Gracie

    It says 24/7 but I guess that is only for the automated recording. I’ll try calling again during regular business hours it told me 8AM – 8:30PM Monday – Friday and I think up until 6PM on Saturday. Thanks for the updated tips because sometimes a recording just doesn’t cut it.

  200. Anon

    Oh, thank you! Worked exactly as described.

    You don’t know how many circles I went around trying to get a human on the line. “This is the best information available. Hang up if you’re finished.” Arrogant little automated system refuses to let you talk to any operator once you’ve put in the label number.

  202. awwwww

    This worked last week for me perfectly, but now this week they changed the menu to not accept 0. I’m clueless as to how to talk to a human now. USPS.com has changed and now will not display any relevant information or it’s actual current status… kinda weird because I can log into Amazon.com and see updated tracking status from there. But the USPS site can’t tell me? After the rumors of shutdown a couple months ago, they’re now making things worse!

  203. John

    This will work for many automated systems, not just the USPS. Just wait til the recording starts and hit zero repeatedly and you will usually be put through to an actual person.

  207. Jake Willis

    This worked great – I ship often for my job, and you just saved me about 10 minutes of frustration on every call. Thanks for sharing it

  208. Jason

    I hate the 1800 ASK USPS tracking number system. It always misses a number and you have to start over. Thank for these tips, I pushed 0 after each message and got a real person!

  209. mike

    nice work. i went through the automated system at least three times trying to talk to a real person. this was easy and i got a person on the phone!

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