Ballots, tax returns and other important mail may not get postmarked the day you turn it in, Postal Service warns

What to know about USPS postmark changes and the impact on bills, taxes and election ballots

The USPS updated its language about postmarks, possibly causing changes to when mail is accepted and marked ahead of deadlines. Here's what to know.

Using the mail for ballots or taxes? New USPS rule could affect those services

The United States Postal Service’s rule on delayed postmarking went into effect on Christmas Eve, and it has caused confusion and speculation from many about its impact on mail-in ballots with multiple elections happening in 2026. The change reversed a longstanding practice of same-day postmarking. The change, as stated in the Federal Register, could mean if a person drops a letter — or an election ballot — off at a post office location on a Mon…

New Postal Service rule means mail isn't postmarked when dropped off

If you rely on postmarks when casting your ballot, filing your taxes or paying bills, a new U.S. Postal Service rule makes it clear that you should plan...

USPS to change postmark process in 2026, affecting deadlines

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is set to implement changes in 2026, including adjustments to the postmark process. For years, postmarks have served as legal proof of meeting deadlines, such as submitting ballots by election day.

Postmarks may not reflect when mail was first accepted, Postal Service warns

USPS warns postmarks may not reflect when mail was first accepted. Voters should plan ahead and consider manual postmarks or certified mail

Ballots, tax returns and other important mail may not get postmarked the day you turn it in, Postal Service warns

If you rely on postmarks when casting your ballot, filing your taxes or paying bills, a new US Postal Service rule makes it clear that you should plan ahead.