I feel a bit silly asking this question, but I'm a web designer so be gentle.

I've got a postcard design that requires quite a bit of text for the back (or "address") side. It's a 4.25" by 6" card.

Now I've read (I did visit the postal service website) that you need to allow 4 inches from the right side for the bar code and address area -- but if I'm not using a bar code, what is the maximum width I can safely use on the left side of the back of the card? I always just eyeball this and I've never had a problem, but I want to make sure I do this right.

These are the specs from her printer:

The final (trimmed) postcard size is 6" x 4.25"
-PLUS 1/8" bleed all around; make your final layout 6.25" x 4.50"
-Consider 1/4" for safety from the trim line.
-Don't put any copy or logos too close to the cutlines.
-Actual Live Area is 5.5"x 3.75"
-If your postcard has a border - it must be at least 1/8" wide PLUS
bleed!

So I guess I need to allow .25" from the left-hand side right off the bat. Which leaves me only 1.75" for live content. But that just doesn't seem right.

Please help a web designer/math-impaired designer out. I appreciate it!!