Buy stamps; check current postage for any international cards
Update addresses from last year's returned cards
Order photo cards or address labels if you use them
Write and sign cards in batches
Mail by: ________
Preview of the printable page. The PDF and print view show the full sheet.
How to use the card list
List each household once in Name(s), for example "Maria and Sam Lopez" or "The Patel family". Write the mailing address, or an email if you send e-cards. Tick Address checked once you know it is current, Sent when the card goes in the mail, and Received when a card arrives from them. The Notes column is handy for new babies, new pets, a recent move, or "sent a photo card".
Next year, start from this sheet. The Received column shows who still exchanges cards with you, and the notes remind you what changed.
A simple card-writing timeline
Early to mid-November: update the list and collect missing addresses.
Mid to late November: buy or order cards and stamps. Photo cards often need extra time to print and ship.
Late November to early December: write cards in small batches, a few each evening. Send international cards first.
Early to mid-December: mail domestic cards. Check your postal service's published holiday mailing dates for the cut-off where you live.
Tips for writing cards faster
Set up a station: cards, pens, stamps, return address labels and this list all in one box.
Write a short standard message and add one personal line for each person.
Check off Sent as you seal each envelope so you never double up.
If someone recently moved, ask for the new address by text before you write the envelope. Moving yourself? See the change-of-address checklist.
Many people mail them in the first two weeks of December. International cards need longer, so send them first, and check your postal service's published holiday mailing dates for exact cut-offs.
How many names fit on the sheet?
There are 18 rows. Print extra copies if your list is longer; one sheet per family side or friend group also works well.
What is the Received column for?
It records who sent you a card this year. Over time it helps you decide who to keep on the list and reminds you to thank people.
Can I use it for holiday or New Year cards?
Yes. It works for any seasonal card list, including holiday, New Year and Lunar New Year cards.
Will it print on A4 paper?
The PDF is US Letter size. On A4, choose "Fit to page" or "Scale to fit" in your print dialog.
