Correspondence clerks handle written and digital communications for organizations, managing incoming and outgoing mail, emails, and documents. The work is detail-oriented and office-based. You can start with a high school diploma and learn on the job.
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Correspondence clerks process, organize, and respond to written communications for businesses and organizations. You read incoming mail and emails, determine where they should go, and route them to the right department or person. You draft responses, file documents, and keep records of correspondence. You work with computers to manage digital communications and maintain organized filing systems. You may also prepare outgoing mail and ensure all documentation is accurate and properly recorded. The role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to communicate clearly in writing.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Correspondence Clerks earn a median of $46,800 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 700 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most correspondence clerk positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. The job falls into Job Zone 2, meaning some preparation is needed but not extensive formal education. You can learn the specific skills on the job, including how to use the organization's computer systems, filing procedures, and communication protocols. Focus on developing strong writing, reading, and listening skills before you apply. Many employers provide on-the-job training for their specific processes and software. Consider taking courses in business communication or basic office software to strengthen your candidacy.
The main route into this career is through a high school diploma and entry-level hiring. Since the work involves both written communication and computer skills, Pathly can map the correspondence clerk path that fits you with your counselor to identify which skills to build first and what training might give you an edge with employers.
You are organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable following procedures. You prefer structured work with clear expectations. You like working with information and systems, and you communicate well in writing.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).