GOT QUESTIONS? WE HAVE ANSWERS
About the Organization
Q: Is A Million Thanks a 501(c)(3) organization?
A: Yes! We’re a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Tax ID 26-0361789.
Q: How long has A Million Thanks been operating?
A: We’ve been delivering gratitude since 2004. Over 21 million letters and counting!
Q: Can my school, business, or group host a letter-writing event?
A: Yes! We love group efforts. Fill out our Community Engagement Inquiry and we will be in touch!
How the Program Works
Q: Where do the letters actually go?
A: We send batches of letters to deployed service members, veterans, and military hospitals. Most are sent to a unit contact who shares them with others.
Q: Will a service member write back?
A: While your letter will be deeply appreciated, service members and veterans will not be able to write back. We ask that you don’t include any personal contact information.
Q: Is there a cost to participate?
A: There’s no fee, but we suggest a $1 donation per letter if you’re able. It helps us cover screening, packaging, and international postage.
LETTER GUIDELINES
Q: Can I write a letter to a specific service member?
A: No. All letters should be addressed generically—such as “Dear Hero” or “Dear Service Member.”
Q: Why do my letters have to be handwritten?
A: A handwritten message feels more personal and genuine—it shows time and care. Our service members say it makes the message more meaningful and heartfelt.
Q: Why can’t I use commercially printed cards?
A: Due to lack of donations we can no longer accoamadate notecards without a paid logo placement agreement. Note cards take up 75% more volume in shipping boxes which significantly increse our postage costs.
Q: Can I include stickers or drawings?
A: Yes! Stickers, kid art, and creative touches are welcome—they help make each letter feel personal and special. Just be sure everything is securely attached and that you don’t use any glitter.
CONT'D
Q: Why can’t I use glitter? It’s festive!
A: Glitter that ends up on a uniform, gear, or skin can reflect light and compromise a service member’s safety at night or in tactical environments.
Q: What if my handwriting is terrible?
A: As long as your message is sincere and legible, it’s perfect. If you are concerned about your handwriting have a friend write it for you.
Q: Can I include my contact info in the letter?
A: Please don’t include contact info like phone numbers, emails, or addresses. For privacy and safety, we can’t send letters that contain personal details.
Q: Why do I have to write a message on children’s artwork?
A: Artwork alone is wonderful—but without words, the message can be unclear. If a child is too young to write, we ask that an adult add a note on their behalf.
Mailing & Shipping
Q: Do I need to include an envelope for my letter?
A: NO. Please do not place letters in individual envelopes! We do not send envelopes to the troops. Including them will slow down the screening process and they will be discarded anyway.
Q: Can I send snacks or care package items with my letter?
A: No. We only collect letters and donations. We do not ship care packages or accept other items.
Q: When should I send holiday letters?
A: Holiday-themed letters must arrive at least 6 weeks before the holiday so we can screen, sort, and ship them in time.
Q: Where should I send my letters?
A: All letters go to our National Mail Intake Facility. Visit our Send a Letter page to get the current mailing address.
VOLUNTEER HOURS
Q: Can I earn volunteer hours by writing letters?
A: Yes! We will verify volunteer hours just include your form with your letters—or email it to us after sending.
Q: Will A Million Thanks sign a school or service hour form?
A: Absolutely. If your school or organization requires a specific form, just include it with your letters—or email it to us after sending.
Q: How many volunteer hours can I claim?
A: As a general guideline, most people take about 10 minutes per letter. So if you write 6 letters, you can log 1 hour. You’re welcome to log actual time spent or use this estimate if your group needs a consistent tracking method.
Q: Can I start a club at my high school to write letters?
A: Yes, you can! Many students have started official A Million Thanks (AMT) Youth Clubs at their schools. All you need is a faculty sponsor and a passion for active and veteran military.