Posta Elettronica Certificata (PEC): Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how this certified email system provides legally valid communication and proof of delivery for professionals and companies in Italy.
Posta Elettronica Certificata (PEC) is a specialized email service that provides legal certainty for digital communications. It functions like a registered letter sent via email, ensuring that messages have the same legal weight as traditional paper mail.
Who it's for
This service is designed for all professionals and companies operating in Italy.
What you get
You receive a legally valid email account that provides a "ricevuta di ritorno" (return receipt). This receipt serves as official proof of delivery, confirming exactly when a message was sent and when it was successfully received by the recipient.
What it costs you
Using this service requires an annual fee. While the exact amount depends on the provider you choose, it typically costs around €10-20 per year.
The catch to know
For the legal protections of this system to work, both the sender and the receiver must also be using a PEC account. If you send a PEC message to a standard, non-certified email address, you will not receive the legal proof of delivery required for official business.
How to apply
- Choose a certified provider that offers PEC services.
- Register your identity and professional details with the provider.
- Complete the setup and activate your new certified email address.
- Use your new address for all official professional and legal communications.