Correspondence Chess FAQ

Q: If I play Correspondence Chess (CC) will I get a chess rating?

A: Yes! As soon as you finish your first game, notify the Correspondence Chess Director (CCD) at USCF and a provisional rating will be calculated. After you have 25 CC games rated, your rating is recognized as Established.

Q: I am unrated, how do I determine what Class to start in?

A:	Class A:	very strong (1800-1999)
	Class B:	strong (1600-1799)
	Class C:	average (1400-1599)
	Class D:	Novice (beginner to playing chess) (1399- below)

(Note: If you have a USCF over-the-board rating, use this as a guide.)

Q: Can I use my chess computer?

A: No. Computers with chessplaying algorithms of any form, except when such computers are expressly permitted by special rules, are prohibited.

Q: Can I refer to chess books?

A: Yes. Players are free to consult chess publications or literature but are not permitted to consult with other players.

Q: What equipment do I need?

A: Suggested items to purchase are move-mailing postcards and a Post-a-log. Move-mailing cards are designed for playing chess through the mail. The Post-a-log is designed to enable you to keep track of each game separately on a scoresheet with a chessboard for easy record keeping.

Q: How to I contact my opponent?

A: You will receive a pairing sheet w/playing instructions from the CCD. If you are playing in a chess-by-mail event, it will be sent through the Post Office. If you are playing in an e-mail event via the Internet, the pairings will be sent to you at your e-mail address. You will exchange moves with your opponent via the same manner in which you receive your pairings from USCF.

Q: How do I get started?

A: Contact USCF, Correspondence Chess Director, Alex Dunne:

Official USCF Correspondence Chess Rules can be found here.

Suggested USCF equipment / books for Correspondence Chess players:

These Items are available in our USCF Online Store. Or call toll-free in the US to order by phone at 1-800-388-5464.

• Correspondence Chess Move-Mailing Cards
• Post-A-Log
• Post-A-Log Refills
• Get the winning edge with Informants!
• USCF's Official Rules of Chess