What Even Is a Postmark? USPS Finally Spells It Out
Published Date: 8/12/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Postal Service wants to add a new rule that clearly explains what a postmark is and when it’s applied. This helps everyone understand that a postmark shows the mail was handled on that date, but not necessarily the exact day it was first accepted. No changes to how postmarks are made are planned, but customers will learn how to get proof of the exact acceptance date if they want it.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
What a Postmark Actually Means
You should know a postmark shows the Postal Service had the mailpiece in its possession on the date printed on the postmark. The rule says that postmark date does not necessarily equal the exact date the Postal Service first accepted the mailpiece.
Options for Exact Acceptance Proof
If you need proof of the exact date the Postal Service first accepted your mailpiece, the Postal Service will explain the options available to get that evidence. The proposed section tells customers how to obtain proof of the exact acceptance date if they want it.
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Key Dates
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