The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) changed its postmark rules effective December 24, 2025, meaning most mail is now postmarked by automated machines at regional centers when first processed, not when dropped off, potentially causing a delay of several days. This shift from the actual deposit date to the processing date can affect mail-in ballots, tax payments, and other time-sensitive documents relying on the postmark for legal deadlines, so mailing items well in advance or requesting a hand-stamped mark at the counter is crucial. Whats changed?

Processing Date: Postmarks now reflect when mail is first processed by automated sorters, not when you deposited it in a mailbox or handed it to a clerk.

Potential Delays: This processing date can be days after you mailed the item, especially with weekend/holiday gaps or network consolidation.

Official Clarification: A new rule in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM 608.11) clarifies this, noting the postmark "does not necessarily indicate the first day that the Postal Service had possession of the mailpiece".