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USPS Changes Postmark Rules. Why Your Mail Could Be Late
The USPS postmark will now reflect the date mail is first processed by automated sorting machines, effective Dec. 24, potentially delaying official postmark dates for time-sensitive mail.
- On Dec. 24, 2025 the United States Postal Service updated its postmark rule so most postmarks are applied at large processing plants and show the date mail is first processed rather than when accepted.
- As part of a broader efficiency drive, USPS is upgrading post office services with 24/7 smart lockers, enhanced kiosks, and a Rapid Drop mobile app, Tracy Raymond said.
- By law, the U.S. postmark determines tax filing dates, and later postmarks can affect tax payments, ballots, legal filings, and bill payments, risking late fees or penalties; USPS recommends requesting a manual local postmark at a post office counter for hard deadlines.
- On Jan. 18, 2026, USPS shipping rates for Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select will increase, while the First-Class Mail stamp stays at $0.78.
- The USPS website urges mailing ballots and deadlines at least one week early, and customers can buy a Certificate of Mailing or request a hand-stamped postmark at a post office counter.
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21 Articles
21 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources21
Leaning Left12Leaning Right0Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution71% Left
Bias Distribution
- 71% of the sources lean Left
71% Left
L 71%
C 29%
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