FAQ
Traditional Mail Forwarding
What does my new address look like?
Your new address will be our physical street address with a unique Personal Mailbox (PMB) # behind our suite #. EXAMPLE PMB 123:
John and Susan Smith
401 E. 8th Street, Suite 214-123
Sioux Falls, SD 57103
Can I stop into the office to pick up my mail anytime you are open?
Absolutely! We love to see our customers face-to-face. Our office hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Central Standard Time except on federally recognized postal holidays.
What does PMB stand for?
Personal Mail Box, it is considered a “physical address” by the U.S. Post Office.
Do I need an appointment to come in and sign up?
Appointments are preferred for in-person sign ups but are not necessary. Call 605-799-1267 or email us at clients@yourbestaddress.com to schedule an appointment, we’d love to see you.
How do I check my postage balance?
Checking postage is easy. Your current postage balance is included in the "mail sent" confirmation email. You can also check anytime by logging into the Client Portal page. You can do this by going to yourbestaddress.com. On a desktop computer, you will see Client Portal in the upper right-hand corner. On your phone, click the three bars in the upper right corner and Client Portal is at the bottom of the drop-down menu.
I move around often, do you charge me every time I want to give you a new address?
No, Your Best Address does not charge to update a new forwarding address. You can update your forwarding address anytime using the client portal. You keep the same PMB and address the entire time you are our client.
Do you charge for extra mailings during the month, changing my frequency, or putting my mail on hold while I travel?
No! We don’t believe in nickel and diming our customers.
Can you ship overseas?
Yes. With packages we will need to know what is in the package for the customs paperwork, but we frequently ship overseas.
Can I have more than 1 name on the PMB?
Yes, if it is your spouse, significant other, partner, or adult child. We do not charge extra for this.
How can I add/remove someone from my PMB?
Adding a new recipient to a box after sign up carries a $50 fee. To add someone to your account after sign up, contact us for an online version of PS Form 1583. If filling out a paper copy instead of an online copy, you will need to have the 1583 notarized and mailed to our office with a photocopy of two different types of identification. Please give us a call and let us know in case we start to get mail before we get the PS Form 1583. We are required by federal law to return mail to sender if the recipient is not an active YBA client with a properly completed 1583 in our possession.
Why do you require the PS Form 1583?
To legally handle your mail, all Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies (CMRA) such as Your Best Address (YBA) are required by the US Postal Service to have clients fill out a PS Form 1583. We offer an online version of this form during sign up, which does not need to be notarized as we will do this for you. If you prefer to send the printable version, the form must be notarized, and you must provide two different forms of identification to the notary. When you sign up, you must mail to YBA the original PS Form 1583 and a copy of two different forms of identification for identification purposes.
I have a business can I use your mail services?
Yes, we have business accounts available. If you operate a business with large volumes of mail or need two or more businesses signed up to a single box, there is an additional $17 per month fee per business.
I have used other companies like yours and they did not require the PS Form 1583 ,why do you?
This is required by the US Postal service for all CMRA (Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies) to legally handle your incoming and outgoing mail. This form must be notarized, and you must provide two different forms of identification to the notary. Mail in the original PS Form 1583 and a copy of two different forms of identification for identification purposes.
If the CMRA has no Form 1583 on file for the intended addressee, the CMRA must return that mail to the Post Office responsible for delivery with this endorsement: “Undeliverable, Commercial Mail Receiving Agency, No Authorization to Receive Mail for this Addressee.” This mail is returned to the Post Office without new postage. The CMRA must return mis--delivered mail the next business day after receipt.
I have signed up for your services, but I am still getting mail at my house, why?
The best way to handle this is to update your mailing address with each individual service. You can also do a temporary change of address with the USPS. A permanent change of address is not recommended as it is difficult to change should you stop using our service.
What do I need to do to get mail for my minor children?
On the PS Form 1583 line 12, enter all your minor children’s names. After that, their mail will be sent to your PMB here at our secure facility.
I get mail for my deceased loved one do I need to do something special for this?
If you receive mail for a deceased loved one, we ask that you put their name on the application, so we know who it belongs to. Mail addressed to a deceased person may be received at the address of the deceased by anyone who would normally receive the addressee’s mail at that address.
Can I live in another state and use your mail forwarding services?
Yes, a majority of our clients live outside of South Dakota. Anyone anywhere can use our mail forwarding services, even those who live overseas.
I own a home in another state and want to get residency in SD for tax purposes, can I do that?
Many of our clients qualify for South Dakota residency for tax purposes, but because we are not tax experts, we cannot make a guarantee on your specific situation. For tax and legal advice, you will want to contact a licensed specialist.
What is the minimum amount of time I can use your services?
If you are using the address for South Dakota residency or vehicle registrations, you must permanently maintain an annual subscription. For seasonal users, the minimum amount of time is three months. It takes the post office about two weeks to get the mail rerouted to us at the beginning and again at the end to be rerouted back to your home address.
Digital Mail
What is the advantage of digital mail?
Digital mail allows you to see and manage your mail online, anytime and anywhere. If you need quick access to incoming mail, such as checks, legal paperwork, or other time sensitive materials, digital mail is the choice for you. Use any smartphone or computer to log into your secure account on our custom platform. Then, see your mail and select the action you would like to take – “Shred”, “Save”, “Mail”, or “Open & Scan.” Unlike the US Postal Service’s informed delivery, we are able to open and scan the contents.
How do I set up an account?
You can set up an account by including digital mail in your plan when signing up. Within eight business days, we will send you the account creation information. At that point, you simply create a username and password to access your digital mail account anytime from anywhere. You can also upgrade to digital mail anytime from the client portal.
How quickly does mail get uploaded?
Our digital mail team scans every envelope every business day so your mail is made available within 24 hours of the day we receive it.
Can it save me money?
Yes. By telling us ahead of time which pieces to shred or hold, you can easily save money on shipping. It also saves you time and hassle in dealing with important mail.
Can I update my address, choose when and how to send mail, and deposit postage from the app?
Yes. Personally updating your information on the app saves both you and our team time, and it is the most accurate, safest way to update your address.
Vehicle Registration
Can you assist me in registering my vehicles?
Of course! We can assist over the phone or via email. Some items may need to be mailed, such as titles and reassignment forms from the dealership. Once you are enrolled in our mail forwarding service for an annual membership, complete this form to schedule an appointment. Our fee is typically $185 per vehicle with FMCA members getting the first registration free. The cost of the assistance fee after tax is $197.03 per registration.
Do I have to be a resident to register my vehicle?
No. There are benefits to registering a vehicle in South Dakota as a South Dakota resident, such as online registration renewal access and special license plates, but South Dakota residency is not required. Out of state residents will need a photo of a US government issued ID (a driver license, passport, government ID) as well as a photo of either a social security card or a W2 with the full social listed. If registering a vehicle in South Dakota with a South Dakota license, no proof of social security is needed.
Do I need an appointment to come in and get my vehicles registered?
Phone appointments are appreciated but not necessary. If additional information is needed, a phone call may be necessary. For further information, please contact our dedicated vehicle registration specialist via email at vehicles@yourbestaddress.com or by phone at 605-799-1266.
Are vehicle registrations in South Dakota processed at the DMV?
No. Unlike in many other states, South Dakota drivers’ licenses and vehicle registrations are conducted by separate government entities. The DMV processes drivers’ licenses and the county treasurer’s office handles vehicle registrations.
Can I register my vehicle at any county treasurer’s office in South Dakota?
A South Dakota driver’s license can be obtained anywhere in the state, but as a rule, your PMB address with YBA only allows access to Minnehaha County treasurer’s office for vehicle registration. Clients have had success registering in other counties, but you would want to call those counties directly to inquire.
Do I have to get my vehicles inspected?
No, South Dakota does not require vehicle inspection for registration.
Do I need proof of insurance?
No.
Is there ever a need to bring the vehicle to South Dakota if registered here?
No.
When do I need to renew my vehicle registration?
Your SD registration renewal month is based on the first letter of your last name:
A / B – January
C / D / E – February
F / G / J – March
H / I / O – May
K / L – June
M / N – July
P / Q / R – August
S – September
T/U/V/W/X/Y/Z – November
Example: If your last name begins with “R,” your first request for your registration will be issued with an expiration/renewal in August. If you request to register in May, your plates will expire in August. The annual fee will be prorated for you on the first year, so you will only pay for the few months of actual time (i.e.: you only pay from May to August).
Upon your renewal in August, it will then be a full year registration and will always be due to be renewed in August.
For more information and assistance on the renewals, contact our vehicle specialist at 605-799-1266 or vehicles@yourbestaddress.com.
Does the dealership have to do my registration?
Not usually. In most cases, the dealership does not have to do your registration.
My vehicle is financed, and the bank/financier has the title. Can I register this vehicle in South Dakota without the title?
No, we must have the title. We contact your lien holder to have the title sent to our county, however, we will need the VIN, year, make, model, name of the bank and account number for the financing in order to request the title. This can be provided before or after the initial phone appointment with our vehicle registration specialist. Titles for financed vehicles can take six to eight weeks to arrive at the treasurer’s office after requested. The vehicle cannot be registered prior to the title arriving. We will send you a reminder letter for lapsing registrations.
I don’t have the title to my vehicle, what can I do?
To make this process easier for you, we can write to the lender for your title. At the time of the appointment (either by phone or in person) with our Vehicle Registration Specialist, you will need to have the lender name and address, your loan or account number, and a fax number or email address where the letter requesting the title be sent to South Dakota can be sent.
Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for the title to be sent from the lender to South Dakota. We will write the letter and send same day of the appointment. We can only write for the title and must allow 30 days before we can send a 2nd request. We cannot call the lender, but you can.
When will I receive my South Dakota title?
The current turn-around-time is six to eight weeks for South Dakota titles. For titles with a lien, South Dakota will issue an electronic title (ELT), but the lien holder will need to request if a paper copy is needed. Owners of these vehicles will only receive a paper title when the lien is satisfied. At that time a paper title will be printed and mailed to you. South Dakota has been an ELT state since October 2012.
What is unladen vehicle weight, and why do I need it?
Unladen vehicle weight (sometimes called unloaded, dry, curb, or shipping) is the weight of the vehicle when it came off the line at the factory. South Dakota uses this weight to calculate the license fees. Documentation of this weight is needed for all motorhomes, 5th wheels, travel trailers, as well as all trailers. Most times documentation can be found in the vehicle itself on a specification sticker in the unit. A listing online of the same year, make and model with the weight listed one of the following ways will also satisfy South Dakota’s requirement for proof of weight: UVW, unladen weight, dry weight, shipping weight, curb weight, empty weight, or weight at manufacturing. Anything beginning with a G will not be accepted for proof of weight. If proof of weight documentation as described cannot be provided, a copy of a scale ticket from a weighing station will be needed.
What is needed to register a RV/5th wheel if I live out of the country?
You will need your photo ID(s), original title, and a picture of the weight sticker (unladen vehicle weight, curb weight, etc.) in addition to the vehicle registration application and power of attorney form allowing us to register on your behalf.
How much is the South Dakota wheel tax?
The South Dakota wheel tax caps at $16 per wheel, but can be lower.
How can I renew my vehicle registrations?
1. Individuals with a South Dakota drivers license may renew online at http://mysdcars.sd.gov
2. Individuals without a South Dakota license may call the Minnehaha County Treasurer’s Office directly and pay over the phone with a debit or credit card. The county does not accept out-of-state checks and does not consider a check with a PMB address to be an in-state check. The treasurer’s office can be reached at 605-367-4211
3. Our vehicle registration specialist can renew the registrations for you. The assistance fee is $25.00.
South Dakota Residency & Domicile
Do I have to live in South Dakota full time to be a resident?
No! To become a South Dakota resident, you must only spend one night in the state every five years. Wherever you stay, including campgrounds, be sure to get a receipt that includes all names of person listed on your account. You will need to get a South Dakota driver’s license at the local DMV.
What are the steps to obtain my SD Driver's License?
- Appear in person at a SD Driver Testing Agency
- Pass a Basic Vision Test
- Surrender your current valid Driver’s License
- Bring physical evidence demonstrating proof of your South Dakota mailing address, or you may request a copy of your YBA contract
- Bring receipt, which must be less than one year, of your one-night stay in South Dakota
- Pay $28 (cash only) and your license is valid for five years.
You can now renew your driver’s license through the mail, but you will still need to provide a copy of a receipt of your stay in South Dakota that is less than one-year old.
You must bring one of the following items to prove identity, date of birth and lawful status:
Valid unexpired U.S. passport
Certified U.S. birth certificate
Valid unexpired permanent resident card
Valid unexpired employment authorization document
Certificate of Naturalization
Foreign passport with valid unexpired U.S. Visa with I-94
Certificate of Citizenship
You must also bring one of the following items to serve as proof of your Social Security Number.
Social Security card
SSA 1099 Form
Non-SSA 1099 Form
W-2 Form
Pay stub that includes your name and social security number
Please note, if your last name is different on one of your IDs, you will need to provide the necessary documentation for the difference (i.e. birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.)
Finally, you will need to fill out a Residency Affidavit Form, available at all South Dakota Driver’s License stations or available online during sign up with Your Best Address.
My license is about to expire, do I have to take a test to get a new one?
You can renew or get a new license up to 30 days after your current license has expired to avoid taking the written test. If your license has been expired for more than 30 days, you will have to take a written test.
I travel full-time and was served a Jury summons, what do I do?
Recently Minnehaha County made a significant change in how they handle Juror Summons for clients with a mobile lifestyle. If you receive a summons for jury duty, please call them at 605-782-3062 or access the website with the Login and Password you receive in your letter. We are working with the County to try and modify their position, but for the time being, please contact them as soon as you receive the summons.
As a South Dakota resident, can I register to vote in South Dakota?
Yes, you can. Voter Registration Forms are available at our office, the county treasurer’s office or https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/voting/register-to-vote/default.aspx to download the forms needed. To register to vote, you will need to spend at least one night at a hotel or campground within Minnehaha County. You will then use that address as your voting residential address. Your personal mailbox address with us does NOT qualify as a residential address for voter registration purposes. Be sure to have the name of each person who is registering printed on the official receipt from the hotel or campground.
How do I get an absentee ballot?
15 days before an election, request an absentee ballot.
A request to vote via absentee ballot is good for one calendar year after which you must request another.
Update Existing Accounts
I am no longer in need of your services what do I do?
We will be sad to see you go! You can initiate account cancellation on the client portal, however, your account must be free of outstanding postage and term balances before the account can be closed. Prior to cancelling your mailbox, you will need to contact each person/company to let them know of your new address. Unfortunately, we are not legally able to do this for you. Be advised that cancelling your account negates South Dakota residency, and we are obligated by law to contact the state about the change in your status.
I need to add or remove and individual or business in connection with my mailbox?
Other Questions
Does my pet need to be registered in Sioux Falls?
Yes. Please contact any Sioux Falls veterinary office, Sioux Falls law enforcement, or the Sioux Falls Humane Society. You will need proof of rabies vaccination when you contact the veterinary office. Neutered or spayed cat or dog cost $5/ 1-year license, $15/3-year license. Not spayed or neutered cost $25/ 1 year $72 for 3-year license
I want to get a passport can I use the address that Your Best Address provided?
Yes, many of our international clients do this.
What do I need to do to get a concealed pistol permit to carry in South Dakota?
The Minnehaha County Sheriff will allow people who have a PMB on their driver’s license address to apply for Concealed Carry permits. However, the applicant must follow South Dakota law, which states:
South Dakota law states that the applicant must have physically resided in and is a resident of the county where the application is being made for at least thirty days immediately preceding the date of the application.
After 1 week for the background check on a standard permit, the applicant can return to our office to pay the permit fee and receive their temporary permit. The enhanced background check takes a little bit longer as the applicant’s fingerprints are sent to Pierre for the background check. For all permits, the actual permit card will come from the Secretary of State in Pierre within 30 days.
Standard:
Cost: $10
Must pass standard background check
Valid in 31 states
Duration: 5 years
Gold:
Cost: $70
Must pass fingerprint background check ($43.25 processing fee payable to DCI)
Valid in 32 states
Allows purchasing of firearm without NICS check
Duration: 5 years
Enhanced:
Cost: $100
Must pass fingerprint background check ($43.25 processing fee payable to DCI)
Valid in 37 states, including Nebraska and Minnesota
Requires successful completion of a qualifying handgun course
Allows purchasing of firearm without NICS check
Current list of course
instructors: http://atg.sd.gov/docs/LET_EnhancedInstructorRoster.pdf
Duration: 5 years
Restricted Enhanced Permit:
For permit holders age 18-20 years old
Same cost & requirements as regular enhanced permit
Same benefits as regular enhanced permit, minus reciprocity with Minnesota and Nebraska
I have a business and need a registered agent can your services provide this?
Yes, please contact us to add this service to your account. There is a $125 annual fee for this add-on.