In formal correspondence, which is the appropriate salutation for a female client with the surname Smith?

• A. Mr. Smith
• B. Ms. Smith
• C. Mrs. Smith
• D. Miss Smith

Answer: (B)

Choosing a respectful, professional form of address is essential in formal correspondence. For a female client with the surname Smith, the best choice is to use a neutral title that doesn’t imply marital status. Ms. Smith conveys respect and professionalism and avoids assumptions about whether she is married, single, or divorced. Mrs. Smith would imply a specific marital status, and Miss Smith suggests she is unmarried, which can feel outdated or inappropriate in many business contexts. Mr. is not applicable to a female recipient. If you know she has a preferred title, you should use that, but when the marital status is unknown, Ms. Smith is the standard, safest option.