01/07/2026
Postmarks Aren’t What They Used To Be
A quick heads-up for anyone who still mails time-sensitive documents: the USPS has made a change that affects how much you can rely on a postmark as proof of mailing date.
Because more mail is being processed at regional centers (instead of locally), the postmark may not be applied until your envelope reaches that processing facility. That can create a gap between the day you dropped it off and the date the USPS officially marks it as delivered—especially in rural areas or far from a processing hub.
This matters for things like filing tax returns, mailing estimated tax payments, responding to IRS letters, sending legal documents, or even making charitable donations you want counted for a specific tax year.
If you’re mailing something with a deadline, a few practical ways to protect yourself:
• Take it to the USPS counter and ask for a hand-stamped postmark.
• Buy postage at the counter so your label shows the acceptance date.
• For higher-stakes items, use Certified Mail or Registered Mail so you have proof of the mailing date.
Not advice—just a practical reminder. If you’re cutting it close to a deadline, it’s worth getting proof at the counter instead of relying on the postmark from a mailbox drop.
