When writing an address, commas are used to separate the different components of the address, but not all parts require commas. Here are the key rules for placing commas in an address:
- Place a comma after the street address or P.O. Box number.
- Place a comma between the city and the state or province.
- Do not place a comma between the state and the ZIP or postal code.
- If the address is part of a sentence, place a comma after the ZIP code if the sentence continues.
- When writing the address on separate lines (such as on an envelope), commas at the end of lines are generally not necessary.
- Separate countries from the rest of the address with a comma if included in the sentence.
Example in a sentence:
"Please send the letter to Greg Carvin at 708 Spring Street, Washington, IL
61571." Example on separate lines:
Ms. Belle Planet
223 Center Street
Venus, New York 10001 If the sentence continues after the address:
"Belle Planet lives at 223 Center Street, Venus, New York 10001, but she is
thinking of moving to Mars." Summary table of commas in addresses:
Address Part| Comma Usage
---|---
Between street and city| Yes
Between city and state| Yes
Between state and ZIP code| No
After ZIP code (in sentence continuation)| Yes
At end of line (envelope)| Usually no
Between country and rest| Yes (if in sentence)
These rules follow standard American English conventions and may vary slightly with British or other international formats
