Letter bond paper is the standard 8.5 x 11-inch office paper used in the United States and Canada, commonly sold in reams of 500 sheets and weighing 20 or 24 pounds. It is called “bond” because its original use was for government bonds, but today it simply means a durable, multipurpose paper suitable for printing, copying, and everyday office correspondence.
What Does “Bond” Actually Mean?
The term “bond” dates back to the 19th century when cotton-fiber paper was used for printing government bonds and other legal documents. That paper was strong, had a fine surface, and resisted wear. Modern bond paper is made primarily from wood pulp, but it retains the same qualities: a smooth finish, good opacity, and enough strength to go through a printer or copier without jamming. Unlike newsprint or tissue paper, bond paper is designed to hold ink well and stay flat when stored.
In the U.S., bond paper is measured by its basis weight—the weight in pounds of a ream (500 sheets) of the original 17×22-inch sheet. A standard 20-pound bond paper is the most common choice for everyday printing. A 24-pound paper is slightly thicker and more opaque, often used for letterhead, resumes, and documents that need a more substantial feel.
Letter Size vs. A4: The Key Difference
Letter paper is 8.5 x 11 inches (216 x 279 mm). A4 paper, used in nearly every other country, is 210 x 297 mm (8.27 x 11.69 inches). The difference is subtle but important: A4 is narrower and taller than Letter. If you print a document designed for Letter on A4 paper, the margins will be off, and if you print an A4 document on Letter, the bottom of the page may be cut off. Most modern printers and word processors have settings for both, but you must select the correct one.
This size difference also affects file envelopes, binders, and filing systems. A Letter-size document will not fit neatly into an A4 binder without holes being misaligned. If you work with international colleagues, always ask which paper size they expect before sending a file.
How to Choose the Right Letter Bond Paper
Not all letter bond paper is the same. Here are the main factors to consider:
- Weight (20 lb vs. 24 lb vs. 28 lb): 20 lb is standard for everyday printing and copying. 24 lb is a good upgrade for professional documents. 28 lb is heavier and often used for high-end presentations or resumes.
- Brightness: Measured on a scale of 1 to 100, brightness indicates how much light the paper reflects. A brightness of 92-96 is typical for office paper; higher brightness makes colors pop and text look crisper.
- Opacity: This is how well the paper prevents show-through. Higher opacity is better for double-sided printing. Look for opacity ratings of 90 or above.
- Finish: Bond paper is usually smooth or slightly textured. A smooth finish is best for inkjet and laser printers, while a textured finish (like linen or laid) is used for letterhead and certificates.
- Certifications: If sustainability matters to you, look for papers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Even good paper can cause issues if not used correctly. Here are the most frequent problems:
- Paper jams: Often caused by feeding damp or curled paper. Store paper in a dry place, and fan the stack before loading it into the tray.
- Ink smudging: On inkjet printers, this usually happens when the paper is too glossy or the ink hasn’t dried. Use paper specifically rated for inkjet (most bond paper is), and let prints dry before stacking.
- Toner flaking: On laser printers, toner may flake off if the paper is too textured. Use smooth bond paper for laser printing.
- Double-sided printing issues: If the paper is too thin, the ink may show through. Use 24 lb paper with high opacity for duplex printing.
Cost and Environmental Impact
A standard ream of 20 lb letter bond paper costs between $5 and $10, depending on brand and quality. 24 lb paper is slightly more expensive. Buying in bulk (cases of 10 reams) reduces the per-ream cost. Recycled bond paper is often comparable in price and has a lower environmental impact. However, recycled paper can sometimes be less bright or have a slightly different texture, so test it before buying a large quantity.
For the environment, look for paper that is both recycled and certified by a reputable organization. Also consider printing double-sided and using paper efficiently—paper production is resource-intensive, so reducing consumption is the most impactful choice.
Alternatives to Letter Bond Paper
While letter bond is the default for everyday office use, other options exist:
- Cardstock: Heavier (65 lb and up), used for business cards, postcards, and covers.
- Resume paper: Usually 24 lb or heavier, with a cotton or linen finish for a premium feel.
- Recycled paper: Made from post-consumer waste, available in the same weights and sizes.
- Specialty paper: Includes photo paper, glossy paper, or translucent paper for specific printing needs.
For most daily printing, letter bond remains the most practical and cost-effective choice.
Letter Bond Paper Template
Blank Template:
Date: ___________________________
To: _____________________________
From: ___________________________
Subject: _________________________
Body:
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Signature: _______________________
Sample (fictional):
Date: March 14, 2025
To: Alex Rivera
From: Jamie Chen
Subject: Project Update
Hi Alex,
Here is the latest update on the marketing project. We have completed the research phase and are now moving into the design stage. The team will present the initial mockups on Friday. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Best,
Jamie
Frequently Asked Questions
Is letter bond paper the same as copy paper?
Yes, in most cases. “Copy paper” is a generic term for multipurpose paper, and “bond” refers to the original use. Both are typically 20 lb, 8.5×11 inches, and suitable for printing and copying. The terms are often used interchangeably.
What is the difference between 20 lb and 24 lb bond paper?
The weight refers to the thickness and durability. 24 lb paper is thicker, more opaque, and feels more substantial. It is better for double-sided printing and professional documents. 20 lb is lighter and more economical for everyday use.
Can I use letter bond paper in a laser printer?
Yes, most letter bond paper is designed for both inkjet and laser printers. However, check the packaging for the printer type. Some papers are specifically coated for inkjet to prevent smudging, while others are made for laser to avoid toner flaking.
How many sheets are in a ream of letter bond paper?
A standard ream contains 500 sheets. This is the universal count for office paper. Some reams are sold as “short” reams with 400 sheets, but these are rare and usually marked clearly.
Is letter bond paper recyclable?
Yes, letter bond paper is fully recyclable as long as it is not contaminated with food, wax, or plastic. You can place it in your curbside recycling bin. Shredded paper is also recyclable, but check with your local facility for specific guidelines.
Why is it called “letter” size?
The name comes from its original use for business letters. In the early 20th century, the U.S. government standardized the size for official correspondence, and it became the default for business and personal letters. It is also known as ANSI A size.