PS Form 1094. Request for Post Office Box Key or Lock Service

This form — PS Form 1094, “Request for Post Office Box Key or Lock Service” — is used whenever a PO Box holder needs to obtain additional keys, replace worn or broken keys, or request lock-related services from the United States Postal Service. Although короткая на вид, the form has real legal weight: by signing it, you confirm responsibility for all issued keys and acknowledge federal restrictions on unauthorized key possession. This description explains how the form works, when it is required, and how to complete it without delays.

Purpose of the Form

The Postal Service requires this form for any modification to your PO Box key set or lock. It is the official way to request:

• Additional PO Box keys (non-refundable fee applies)
• Replacement of damaged or worn keys
• Replacement of a broken or malfunctioning lock
• Documentation that keys were returned or fees collected

USPS uses this document to track issued keys, ensure compliance with federal law, and calculate the refundable key deposit when keys are surrendered. In most cases, you cannot simply ask for a new key at the counter without this form.

Who Is Allowed to File

The form may be completed by the individual listed as the PO Box holder or an authorized organization representative. If the box belongs to a business or nonprofit, the signer must include their title and full name. Unauthorized persons cannot request or possess PO Box keys — doing so may lead to criminal penalties under 18 USC §1704.

When the Form Is Required

You must submit PS Form 1094 when:

• You need extra copies of your existing PO Box keys
• Your key has become worn, bent, or no longer works reliably
• You lost a key and need to replace the lock
• You are returning keys and need USPS to document the refundable deposit
• You are updating which individuals are authorized to hold keys (organization boxes)

The form is not required when you first rent a PO Box — initial key issuance is handled during rental.

Section-by-Section Explanation

Post Office™ Name, State, ZIP+4®

Enter the USPS location where your PO Box is registered. This ensures the request reaches the correct facility, especially important for organizations managing multiple boxes.

Name of Post Office Box Assignee, Box Number, Number of Keys Assigned

This identifies the legal holder of the box. Errors here can delay service — the name must match USPS records exactly.

Reason for Request

You select the needed service: additional keys, a damaged key replacement, new lock installation, or damaged lock replacement. This section also includes the fee calculation line for extra keys.

Fee Calculation

USPS charges a non-refundable fee for additional keys or lock replacement. Damaged keys and damaged lock replacement may be free. Staff will enter the deposit amount for refundable keys.

Postal Service Use Only

This area is completed by USPS employees to document fees received, worn keys surrendered, and issuance of replacement keys. Do not write in this section.

Customer Agreement

By signing the form, you agree to return all keys when the box is closed and acknowledge federal law prohibiting possession of unauthorized PO Box keys. Violations may result in fines up to $500 or imprisonment up to 10 years.

Signature, Title, Date

The person responsible for the box signs here. Organizations must include the signer’s official title.

Practical Recommendations

• Bring a government-issued ID when submitting the form.
• If keys are damaged, return every piece — USPS must verify the physical condition to waive fees.
• Calculate the number of additional keys realistically; reducing keys later does not refund the non-refundable fee.
• Keep your receipt until all associated deposits are refunded.
• Submit the form at the same post office where the box is registered — other locations cannot process it.

Real-Life Examples

• Small business adds new staff: A store hires two employees who need access to mail. The owner submits PS Form 1094 to request two additional keys.

• Damaged key from daily use: A customer’s key gets bent after years on a crowded keyring. USPS replaces it at no charge using this form.

• Lost key requiring lock change: After misplacing a PO Box key, a renter submits the form for a lock replacement and receives a new set of keys.

• Closing the box: When moving to a new state, a customer returns keys and receives their refundable deposit. USPS documents the return using PS Form 1094.

Documents You May Need

• Government-issued photo ID (required for individuals)
• Organization authorization letter (for business or nonprofit boxes)
• Existing keys, even if worn or broken
• Payment method (card, cash — depending on location)
• PO Box rental receipt or access information if requested by staff

FAQ

Do I need this form to get my first set of PO Box keys?

No. Initial keys are issued automatically when you sign your PO Box rental agreement.

Is there a fee for replacing a damaged key?

Usually no. USPS replaces worn or broken keys at no cost if you return the damaged key.

What happens if I lose a key?

You will typically need a lock replacement, which requires a non-refundable fee. USPS will issue new keys with the new lock.

Can an employee pick up additional keys for a business PO Box?

Yes, but only if they are listed as an authorized representative and provide identification.

How many additional keys can I request?

USPS does not set a strict cap, but the postmaster may limit the number based on security policy.

Is the refundable key deposit returned automatically?

No. You must return all keys and close the box before the deposit can be refunded.

Can I mail the form instead of submitting it in person?

Most locations require in-person submission because USPS must verify identity and keys.

Micro-FAQ

• Purpose: Request PO Box key or lock services.
• Who files: PO Box holder or authorized representative.
• Fee: Applies to extra keys and most lock replacements.
• Free services: Replacement of worn or damaged keys.
• Attachments: ID, damaged keys, authorization (if applicable).
• Submission: At the post office managing your box.
• Deposit refund: Only after all keys are returned.
• Legal note: Unauthorized key possession is a federal offense.
• Processing time: Often same-day at your local office.

Navigation

• Related forms
• Other forms
• Legal guides and instructions

Form Details

• Form Name: Request for Post Office Box Key or Lock Service
• Form Number: PS Form 1094
• Region: United States Postal Service
• Latest Revision: May 2011