When CASS Certified™ address-matching software cannot match an address to the ZIP + 4® Product, the address becomes a candidate for Address Element Correction (AEC). AEC is a service that corrects and standardizes address elements. AEC processing may transform problem addresses into accurate, standardized addresses, which allows mailers to take full advantage of automation discounts.

AEC focuses on correcting address element deficiencies such as misspellings, nonstandard abbreviations, incorrectly joined elements, improperly ordered elements, address lines containing data other than the actual address, and missing elements. After resolving address element issues, AEC matches the address against the ZIP + 4 Product using CASS Certified address-matching software, resulting in a correct, standardized address.

AEC II™ is the next generation of AEC. AEC II uses Delivery Force Knowledge™ to correct the errors in addresses that are not correctible by existing programs. Delivery Force Knowledge leverages the efforts of local delivery unit employees who review bad addresses and enter corrections into an AEC II electronic process for return to the submitting customer. AEC II participants must process their file through AEC first.

For additional information contact the National Customer Support Center at 800-238-3150 or visit the AEC website on RIBBS™. Click the appropriate link below to view the AEC & AEC II User Guide.