Office Settings & Configuration

How to Change or Remove a Return Address in Word Envelopes

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 15, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to update or delete an incorrect return address that automatically populates when creating and printing envelopes in Microsoft Word.

How to Change or Remove a Return Address in Word Envelopes

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Creating and printing envelopes that require specific sender details or no sender details at all.
Observed behavior: An incorrect or outdated return address is automatically displayed on the envelope template, requiring manual correction.

Before you start

Ensure you know the exact sender details you want to set as your new default before modifying your word processor's mailing options.

Solution 1Recommended

Change or Remove the Default Mailing Address in Word Options

This method permanently updates or deletes the default return address for all future envelopes created in Word.

Microsoft Word pulls the envelope return address directly from your global Mailing Address settings. Modifying this setting ensures you do not have to correct the address manually every time you print an envelope.

Open Word Options

Launch Microsoft Word. Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the ribbon, then select 'Options' at the bottom of the left-hand menu.

Navigate to Advanced Settings

In the Word Options dialog box that appears, click on the 'Advanced' tab on the left panel.

Locate the Mailing Address Field

Scroll down through the advanced options until you reach the 'General' section. Here, you will find a text box labeled 'Mailing address'.

Edit or Delete the Address

To change the return address, type your new details into the box. To remove it completely, delete all text in the box. Click 'OK' to save your changes.

Change or Remove the Default Mailing Address in Word Options

Settings Saved: The next time you open the Envelopes and Labels tool, Word will automatically use the new address or leave the field blank if you deleted it.

Solution 2

Modify or Omit the Return Address for a Single Envelope

Use this method if you only want to change or hide the return address for the current printing job without altering your default settings.

Create and Print Envelopes Seamlessly with WPS Writer

If you frequently print envelopes and manage mailing tasks, WPS Writer offers an intuitive Mailings tool. You can easily set up return addresses, insert delivery fields, and print professional envelopes without wrestling with complex settings.

1. Open the Envelopes Tool: Launch WPS Writer, navigate to the 'Mailings' tab on the top ribbon, and click on 'Envelopes'.
2. Enter Address Details: In the dialog box, type your recipient's information into the Delivery Address field and your own details into the Return Address field.
3. Configure Envelope Options: Click the 'Options' button to select your envelope size (e.g., Size 10) and verify the printer feed method.
4. Print the Envelope: Once your settings are correct, click 'Print' to print immediately, or 'Add to Document' to review the layout first.

Seamlessly compatible with Microsoft Word document formats (.docx).Built-in Mailings tab for quick and easy envelope and label generation.Lightweight software that loads large documents instantly.Completely free to use with a familiar, user-friendly interface.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Word keep prompting me to save the return address?

When you type a new return address directly into the Envelopes and Labels dialog box, Word detects the change and will prompt you to save it as your new default. Click 'Yes' if you want this address to appear automatically on all future envelopes.

How can I format the font of my return address on the envelope?

In the Envelopes and Labels dialog box, click on 'Options', then navigate to the 'Envelope Options' tab. Under the Return address section, click the 'Font' button to customize the typeface, size, and color of your return address text.

Can I add a company logo to my return address on the envelope?

Yes, but you cannot insert an image directly inside the standard Envelopes dialog box. You need to click 'Add to Document' to place the envelope layout into your file. Once added, you can manually insert and position your logo image next to the return address text before printing.

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