Guide
What to include in a pre-lien notice packet
A pre-lien notice packet should be organized, complete, and easy to review. This checklist is informational only and does not provide legal advice.
Published Jan 20, 2026
How it works
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Review the generated PDF before mailing.
We print and mail it via USPS.
Core items to include
- Notice of intent to lien letter.
- Invoice(s) showing the amount due.
- Contract, scope of work, or work order summary.
- Job site address and project details.
- Dates of work performed.
Helpful attachments
- Change orders or addenda (if relevant).
- Photos or completion documentation.
- Payment history or ledger (if partial payments were made).
Packet order (recommended)
- Notice of intent to lien letter
- Invoice(s)
- Contract or scope of work
- Supporting documents
Mailing checklist
- Combine everything into a single PDF.
- Confirm recipient name and mailing address.
- Keep a copy of the PDF for your records.
Recommended mailing method
If you need proof of delivery, use Certified Mail with electronic return receipt (First Class only). If the deadline is tight, consider Express (1-3 business days). Certified Mail is only available with First Class.
Certified Mail with electronic return receipt (First Class only)
What you get
- • Pre-lien notice checklist
- • Certified Mail with electronic return receipt (First Class only)
- • First Class or Express delivery options
Which mailing option and proof should you choose?
PostalForm offers U.S. letter mailing with different delivery and proof options. First-Class suits routine correspondence; Certified Mail adds mailing and delivery records, and Electronic Return Receipt adds a downloadable signature record. Expedited delivery prioritizes speed. Review the destination, estimated dates, total price, and required proof before paying.
| Mailing option | Delivery speed | Proof | Use when | Avoid when |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USPS First-Class Mail | First-Class Mail delivery estimate shown before payment. | Available processing scans; no recipient signature or Certified Mail receipt. | Routine letters when a signed delivery record is unnecessary. | Your instructions require Certified Mail, a signature, or a deadline this estimate cannot meet. |
| Certified Mail | First-Class delivery speed; certification does not make delivery faster. | USPS mailing and delivery/attempt tracking; no Electronic Return Receipt unless added. | You need a recorded mailing and delivery or attempted-delivery status. | You need a downloadable signature record or faster delivery. |
| Certified Mail + Electronic Return Receipt | First-Class delivery speed; signature collection may require redelivery or pickup. | Certified Mail records plus a downloadable USPS signature record when available. | Your instructions call for Certified Mail with Return Receipt or you need the signature record. | Your recipient requires an original enclosure, personal service, or another submission method. |
| Expedited / Express with signature | Faster estimated delivery range shown at checkout; production cutoff and destination apply. | Carrier tracking and signature option; this is separate from Certified Mail and ERR. | Speed and signature matter and checkout offers the service for your destination. | A rule specifically requires Certified Mail or the displayed estimate misses your deadline. |
Availability and delivery estimates depend on the document and destination. Mailing proof does not establish that a recipient accepted a filing or that legal service requirements were met. Delivery estimates · Full pricing
FAQs
- Do you provide legal advice?
- No. This page is informational only.
- Can I mail from my phone?
- Yes. Upload your PDF from any device.
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Build the packet online, review the generated PDF, and we will handle printing and postal mailing.