Under CPLR 311, which of the following is NOT a valid method of serving a corporation?

Under CPLR 311, the acceptable methods for serving a corporation include delivering the summons to specific individuals associated with the corporation, such as its officers, secretary, or any general agent authorized to receive service of process.

Delivery to an officer of the corporation, its secretary, or a general agent is specifically permitted because these individuals are typically entrusted with managing legal matters on behalf of the corporation. This means that serving any of these individuals can be seen as giving the corporation proper notice of the legal action against it.

Service through certified mail, while a method allowed for serving individuals in certain circumstances, is not outlined as a valid method for serving a corporation under this statutory provision. The requirement for service on a corporation emphasizes the need for a direct, personal communication that guarantees the corporation is aware of the legal proceedings, which certified mail may not adequately ensure. Therefore, relying on certified mail does not satisfy the procedural requirements laid out in the CPLR for serving a corporation.