Is It Against the Law to Use Someone Else’s Address?

Using someone else’s address might seem innocent for example, having your mail sent to a friend’s place while you’re traveling — but legally, this can sometimes cross into problematic territory. Whether it’s against the law depends largely on your intent, how you use the address, and whether deception or fraud is involved.

Here’s a breakdown of the legal risks, relevant federal laws, and when using another person’s address can land you and others in trouble.

When Using Someone Else’s Address Is Not Automatically Illegal

Simply using an address with the property owner’s permission is generally not a crime. Legal-advice sources note that if you have a friend’s or family member’s permission to receive mail at their address temporarily — for example, while you’re between homes — there’s usually no criminal issue.

Likewise, some people use another address for legitimate, non-fraudulent purposes, such as establishing a mailing address or getting documents delivered when their own address is not stable. Without malicious intent, using someone else’s address is often a civil or practical matter, not a criminal one.

When Using Someone Else’s Address May Be Criminal — Fraud and Mail Crimes

The legal risk increases significantly when using another person’s address is part of a deceptive scheme. Key federal laws come into play:

• Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341): If you use a false or assumed address in connection with a fraudulent scheme that uses the mail, you may be prosecuted for mail fraud.
• Fictitious Name or Address (18 U.S.C. § 1342): This statute makes it a crime to use a fictitious, false, or assumed address in connection with mail when the underlying purpose is fraudulent or deceitful.
• Obstruction of Mail (18 U.S.C. § 1702): Redirecting or rerouting someone’s mail without authorization violates postal laws.

Under these laws, the prosecutor must generally show that the false address was used knowingly and willfully, and that the use was part of a fraudulent or unlawful scheme.

Penalties for violating these statutes can be severe: fines, imprisonment (up to five years under § 1342), and restitution may all apply.

Identity Theft Risk

Using someone else’s address—especially in combination with their name—can also raise identity theft concerns. Federal identity theft laws penalize using someone’s identifying information (including an address) with intent to commit or conceal criminal activity.

In some cases, lying about your residential address may be part of a broader identity theft scheme. This could subject you to additional legal exposure.

Civil and Privacy Risks

Beyond criminal charges, using someone else’s address can trigger civil liability or invasion-of-privacy claims:

• The person whose address you are using could sue for misrepresentations, identity harm, or damages.
• There may be contractual issues, for instance with business registrations, leases, or voter registration, if you misstate your address for personal gain.

Legitimate, Permitted Uses — and Special Programs

There are lawful ways to use another person’s address — especially when done transparently and with consent:

• Under Address Confidentiality Programs, individuals like victims of abuse or stalking can legally use a substitute address in public records to protect their identity.
• Using a friend’s address to forward mail — if agreed upon — is typically fine, provided there’s no attempt to defraud or impersonate.

Practical Advice

If you’re thinking of using someone else’s address, consider these tips:

1. Ask for permission — Always get explicit, preferably written, consent from the address owner.
2. Be transparent — Use the address legitimately (mail forwarding, temporary delivery), not for deception.
3. Avoid fraud risk — Don’t use the address to misrepresent residency, commit identity theft, or evade obligations.
4. Check your motives — If you’re using the address to gain a benefit you’re not entitled to (insurance, benefits, credit), you may expose yourself to serious legal liability.
5. Seek legal counsel — If someone is pressuring you to give them your address or you’re unsure of the implications, talk to a lawyer.

Conclusion

Using someone else’s address is not automatically illegal, especially when done with permission and for legitimate practical reasons. However, it can become a crime when used in fraud schemes, mail fraud, or identity theft. Federal laws—such as 18 U.S.C. §§ 1341 and 1342—make it illegal to use a false address in connection with mail and fraud.