Abstract: The present invention generally relates to permitting an intended recipient to access snail mail in electronic format. A third party retrieves the snail mail and then converts the snail mail into electronic files. The electronic files are then made available to the intended recipient over the internet. The electronic files are digital images of each envelope as well as the contents of each envelope. The contents are associated with the envelope from which the contents are retrieved. If desired, the intended recipient can select a desired image resolution or quality. The intended recipient can select which envelopes to view based upon the day and also based upon the class of mail.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to turning snail mail into electronic mail. The snail mail is delivered to the intended recipient's mailbox and then retrieved (i.e., intercepted by a third party) before the intended recipient receives the snail mail from the mailbox. The retrieved mail is then converted into an electronic file that is stored on a server. The intended recipient of the snail mail may then access the electronic file to view the snail mail in electronic format. If desired, the intended recipient can request delivery of the actual snail mail after viewing the electronic file.