First class mail can be ______ for free up to 12 months?

The correct answer is that first class mail can be forwarded for free up to 12 months. This service is beneficial for individuals who are relocating and want their mail redirected to their new address without incurring additional costs. The forwarding option ensures continuity of communication by directing mail to the recipient’s new location. This is particularly useful for maintaining correspondence without interruptions during a transition period.

While other choices may seem plausible in different contexts, they do not align with the specific policy of forwarding regarding first class mail. For instance, returning mail typically pertains to undeliverable or unwanted mail rather than a proactive redirection service. Holding mail is a service that allows mail to be temporarily retained at the post office until the recipient is available to receive it, but it does not involve a proactive forwarding action. Canceling mail services is also not relevant here, as it pertains to stopping a delivery rather than redirecting it to another address. Thus, forwarding stands out as the correct service for free handling of first class mail for up to 12 months.