Overview
Letters to the editor are a long standing way for readers to respond to recent news and opeds in the New York Post. This guide explains how to submit letters, what editors look for, and how to follow the paper’s standards.
Because many of the submission routines, policies, and expectations remain stable over time, this page is framed as an evergreen explainer to help you prepare a submission that is clear, responsible, and ready to publish.
What is a letter to the editor
A letter to the editor is a short written response to a news article, columnist, or other item that recently appeared in the New York Post. It allows readers to provide factual corrections, context, reactions, or constructive viewpoints. Letters are distinct from oped pieces, which are longer and typically invited or separately pitched.
The New York Post publishes letters that are timely, relevant, and credible, and that meet its editorial standards for accuracy and clarity. By design, they focus on issues and facts rather than purely personal grievances.
Submission requirements and process
While detailed submission instructions can change, the standard process below reflects the typical expectations maintained by the New York Post editorial team. You should always confirm the current policy on the newspaper’s official site before sending a submission.
Contact methods and preferred formats
Letters are commonly submitted by email through an address designated for reader feedback. Some publications also accept letters through secure web forms. If a web form is available, it will typically request your name, city, state, daytime phone number (for verification), and the text of the letter. Phone calls are generally not used for submission, but may be used for follow-up verification.
Basic editorial requirements
- Timeliness: respond to articles or topics published within the past few days.
- Relevance: address topics in the news that affect New York City and regional readers.
- Accuracy: all factual claims must be supported or clearly attributable.
Length and format
Most letters to the editor should be concise, often in the range of 150 to 250 words, and rarely exceed 300 words unless an editor requests a longer viewpoint. Use a simple format with your full name, city or town, and a daytime phone number for verification. Avoid attachments unless specifically requested; if permitted, use plain text or standard document formats.
Editorial standards and best practices
Editors look for letters that add information, offer perspective, or correct the record in a way that advances public discussion. To meet that standard, concentrate on the issues rather than personal attacks, and use precise language.
Because the volume of mail can be high, clarity and focus improve the chances of publication. Opening with a direct statement about which article or issue you are responding to helps editors quickly assess the relevance.
Practical checks before sending
- Check word count and remove unnecessary detail.
- Verify names, dates, and figures.
- Confirm you are not repeating points already made in other letters.
- Avoid confidential or private information about third parties.
What to expect after submitting
Because publication depends on news flow, available space, and editorial judgment, not every letter can be published. If a letter is selected, an editor may contact you by phone to confirm details or request minor clarification. Be prepared to provide identification or other verification if requested. When a letter is not selected, it is typically not possible to negotiate publication, and individual responses are not usually provided.
Ethical and legal considerations
Letters must comply with standards for accuracy and fairness. Claims that are defamatory, knowingly false, or harassing will not be published. Editors may edit for length, clarity, or style, but they generally do not alter factual assertions in a way that changes the author’s meaning. By submitting a letter, you confirm that you are the author and that it has not been previously published in substantially the same form elsewhere.
Quick reference: key submission points
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Typical length range | 150–250 words; under 300 words unless specified otherwise | Standard editorial practice |
| Common submission method | Email or web form with name, city, state, phone for verification | Letter to the editor guidelines |
| Content focus | Response to a recent article or issue; factual and relevant to New York readers | Editorial policy for opeds and letters |
| Verification step | Phone contact may be used to confirm identity and facts | Standard reader feedback process |
| Publication timing | Letters are published based on news cycle, relevance, and space availability | Editorial discretion |
| Attribution requirement | Include full name, city, and daytime phone number | Reader verification policy |
Conclusion
Submitting a letter to the editor at the New York Post is most effective when it is timely, accurate, and focused on public interest. By following standard requirements for length, format, and ethics, you can prepare submissions that meet editorial expectations and clearly contribute to ongoing news discussions.