How 2...Send snail mail from your computer for free

Etan Horowitz | Sentinel Staff Writer

May 17, 2008

Who said e-mail has killed the art of letter writing? Chances are you probably have an older relative or someone else in your life that you can't e-mail, but would still like to correspond with. So instead of having to type up a letter, print it out, put it in an envelope, address the envelope, slap a stamp on it and put it in the mail, you can you just go online, type up a letter, address the envelope, click a few buttons and have it sent out for you. And if you are willing to submit yourself to advertising pitches, the service is free.

1. Go to eSnailer.com.

2. Fill out the return address information and click "Verify address." Fill out the recipient's name and address and click "Verify address."

3. Type your letter in the document that appears on the screen. You can use word processing tools similar to the ones in Microsoft Word and you can preview your letter. When you are finished, click "Send the letter."

4. You will then be asked to sign up for one of several advertising offers. This is how eSnailer can send your mail for free. If you don't want to sign up for the advertising offers, you can click to pay $1.50 to send your letter.

WARNING! If you do choose the advertising offer, be aware that you may be subjecting yourself to frequent advertising e-mails, phone calls and junk mail. For that reason, I wouldn't use your primary (or maybe even your real) e-mail address, phone number or address.

Once you've chosen an advertising offer, click "Let's Go!"

5. eSnailer says your letter will be printed, addressed, posted and sent out within 24 hours.