Dear Jacquelyn,

I recently lost a close family member and received a number of sympathy cards. What is the proper etiquette for sending thank-you cards for sympathy cards and is there a time window that is considered acceptable?

Dear Reader,

During such a difficult time, sending a thank-you card or note is not a must.

Although most people don’t expect it during your time of grief, it’s still a nice gesture to offer a show of gratitude for people who have been there for you during the difficult time of mourning.

If you decide to send a personal thank-you to those whose kindness impacted you most during your difficult time, a short personal message on a note card is all that is necessary to convey your appreciation.

A simple thank-you or acknowledgment can go a long way especially when written with sincerity.

It can be something simple like, “Thank you for the card. Your kind words have been a comfort.”

Two to three sentences are enough, and it doesn’t need to be formal.

Do not feel pressured to send a thank-you card to every single person who expressed their condolences or to complete the cards all at once. If you aren’t feeling up to the task, a family member or close friend can write the notes on your behalf.

There is no official time frame for sending out your thank- you notes.

Take as much time as you need. The recipients will be grateful to know you appreciate their sympathy card.

The etiquette of acknowledgment is truly a very personal matter. While it may be difficult to find the energy to write a thank-you note after the loss of a loved one, doing so is an important way of acknowledging the kindness that friends and family have shown you during this challenging period in your life.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training.

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