USPS mail classes

Can USPS First-Class Mail be used to transmit confidential materials?

Yes: First-Class Mail is a protected class of mail by law, and federal agencies such as the State Department accept it for classified information.6SD Data Security Considerations and Comparisons Guidancepage 1“First class mail (FCM), by definition, is a protected class of mail by law. … Those protections are why the federal government, such as the US Department of State and the US Treasury, identify USPS FCM in their data security regulations as an acceptable method for transmitting “Secret,” “Highly Classified” and “Classified” information.”USPS original It includes all matter sealed or otherwise closed against inspection.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“A class of mail that includes all matter wholly or partly in writing or typewriting, all actual and personal correspondence, all bills and statements of account, and all matter sealed or otherwise closed against inspection.”USPS original Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express are closed against postal inspection too.7Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 180“Priority Mail service is closed against postal inspection.”USPS original8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“Priority Mail Express service is closed against postal inspection.”USPS original

What is USPS Bound Printed Matter, and what are its mailing requirements?

Bound Printed Matter is a Package Services product for permanently bound sheets, such as books, catalogs and telephone directories, weighing up to 15 pounds.9Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 26“A Package Services product weighing not more than 15 pounds that consists of permanently bound sheets of which at least 90% are printed with advertising, promotional, directory, or editorial matter (or a combination of such matter). … Examples include book, catalog, and telephone directory.”USPS original At least 90% of the sheets are printed with advertising, promotional, directory or editorial matter.9Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 26“A Package Services product weighing not more than 15 pounds that consists of permanently bound sheets of which at least 90% are printed with advertising, promotional, directory, or editorial matter (or a combination of such matter).”USPS original Its prices go by weight, and presorted and carrier route pieces cost less if entered at the destination sectional center facility or delivery unit.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Commercial Large Envelopes (Flats) Nonpresorted | Weight Not Over (lbs.) | Per Piece4 |”USPS original11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Carrier Route + DDU + DSCF * Presorted + DDU + DSCF * Nonpresorted”USPS original12Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 63“Periodicals, Parcel Select, and Bound Printed Matter prices for pieces properly prepared and entered by the mailer at the sectional center facility (SCF) or other postal facility designated as an SCF that serves the delivery address on the pieces.”USPS original13Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 62“Periodicals, Parcel Select, and Bound Printed Matter prices for pieces properly prepared and entered by the mailer at the delivery unit that serves the delivery address on the pieces.”USPS original

What is the purpose of the USPS postal zone charts?

Zone charts show how far a piece travels, from the ZIP Code where it enters the mail to the ZIP Code that delivers it.14PostalPro: National Zone Charts Matrix“The National Zone Charts Matrix assists mailers in determining the distance that a mailpiece travels based on the ZIP Code™ where the mailpiece enters the mailstream (origination) and the ZIP Code that will deliver the mailpiece to the addressee (destination).”USPS original3Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 238“A table that identifies the appropriate distance code (i.e., zone) assigned to each originating and destination pairing for every ZIP Code area in the nation.”USPS original Postage for zoned mail depends on the piece's weight and that distance.14PostalPro: National Zone Charts Matrix“Postage rates for zoned mail are based on mailpiece weight and the distance the mailpiece travels using these zone assignments.”USPS original The charts hold zone information only, not postage rates.14PostalPro: National Zone Charts Matrix“Please note, the matrix does not contain postage rates, only zone information.”USPS original

Is USPS Ground Advantage the same as First-Class or Priority Mail?

No: USPS Ground Advantage ships packages up to 70 pounds by ground, in 2 to 5 days across the continental U.S., without a guarantee.15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“USPS Ground Advantage - This ground shipping sub-category provides a simple, reliable, and affordable way to ship packages weighing up to 70 pounds with day specific (non-guaranteed) delivery in 2 to 5 days across the continental U.S.”USPS original Priority Mail is expedited but not guaranteed, and Priority Mail Express guarantees overnight to 2-day delivery to most U.S. destinations or the money back.7Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 180“An expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, subject to certain standards such as size and weight limits.”USPS original15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“Priority Mail Services - This sub-category includes Priority Mail, which is offered as a service both within the U.S. and abroad with the domestic, day-specified (non-guaranteed) delivery, and Priority Mail Express, which offers an overnight to 2-day delivery with money-back guaranteed services to most U.S. destinations 365 days a year.”USPS original USPS Ground Advantage replaced First-Class Package Service on July 9, 2023, while First-Class Mail is the class for letters, postcards and large envelopes.16Federal Register: Domestic Competitive Products Pricing and Mailing Standards Changes, USPS Ground Advantage (88 FR 32824, May 22, 2023)“First-Class Package Service Rebranded as USPS Ground Advantage … DATES: Effective July 9, 2023.”USPS original15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“First-Class Mail - This category encompasses letters, cards, or large envelopes destined for either domestic (up to 13 ounces) or international (up to nearly 1 pound) delivery.”USPS original

What is the difference between USPS Bound Printed Matter and Media Mail?

Bound Printed Matter carries bound printed sheets such as books and catalogs, while Media Mail carries books, sound recordings and film.9Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 26“A Package Services product weighing not more than 15 pounds that consists of permanently bound sheets of which at least 90% are printed with advertising, promotional, directory, or editorial matter (or a combination of such matter). … Examples include book, catalog, and telephone directory.”USPS original17Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 132“A Package Services product that consist of books, sheet music, printed educational material, film, sound recordings, and computer prerecorded media such as CD-ROMs.”USPS original Media Mail prices are based on weight without regard to zone, and advertising restrictions apply.17Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 132“Media Mail prices are based on the weight of the piece without regard to zone. … Advertising restrictions apply.”USPS original Bound Printed Matter weighs up to 15 pounds, and its prices go by weight and where the mailer enters it, not by zone.9Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 26“A Package Services product weighing not more than 15 pounds that consists of permanently bound sheets of which at least 90% are printed with advertising, promotional, directory, or editorial matter (or a combination of such matter).”USPS original10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Commercial Large Envelopes (Flats) Nonpresorted | Weight Not Over (lbs.) | Per Piece4 | … | None | DSCF | DDU | None | DSCF | DDU |”USPS original

How does USPS Priority Mail Express work?

Priority Mail Express is an expedited service with a money-back guarantee for next-day or second-day delivery in most cases.8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“An expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, subject to certain standards such as size and weight limits and certain hazardous materials restrictions, with a money-back guarantee for next-day or second-day delivery in most cases.”USPS original Postage is charged by weight and zone, except for Flat Rate Envelopes, which cost $38.25 to $39.25 at retail as of October 4, 2026.8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“Except for Flat Rate Envelopes, Priority Mail Express postage is charged for each addressed piece according to its weight and zone.”USPS original10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Notice 123 • Effective October 04, 2026 … Flat Rate Envelope: $38.25 Legal Flat Rate Envelope: $38.55 Padded Flat Rate Envelope: $39.25”USPS original The service is closed against postal inspection.8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“Priority Mail Express service is closed against postal inspection.”USPS original

How does USPS Marketing Mail work?

USPS Marketing Mail is a class for pieces under 16 ounces, such as circulars, catalogs and direct mail.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“A class of mail that weighs less than 16 ounces. … These subclasses include circulars, printed matter, pamphlets, catalogs, newsletters, direct mail, and merchandise.”USPS original A mailing needs at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds of mail to earn business mail discounts.18Election Mail Permit Based SolutionsPDF page 1“To qualify for business mail postage discounts, a minimum number of pieces is required per mailing: … 200 pieces (or 50 pounds of mail) for USPS Marketing Mail”USPS original Authorized nonprofit organizations pay prices about 40% lower.19USPS Nonprofit Marketing Mail Fact Sheet PDF page 1“Authorization to mail at the Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail (nonprofit) prices is a privilege granted by law only to authorized organizations. … Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices are discounted approximately 40% from regular USPS Marketing Mail prices.”USPS original

How do I apply for a USPS nonprofit bulk mail permit?

An organization applies for nonprofit authorization through the Business Customer Gateway or on PS Form 3624, and individuals other than voting registration officials may not.20USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 1“Submit your nonprofit application through the Business Customer Gateway (BCG) at https://gateway.usps.com. … If you have no access to a computer or internet, you may go to your local Business Mail Entry Office (BMEU) or local post office to obtain a PS Form 3624 – Application to Mail Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail Prices.”USPS original21PS Form 3624: Application to Mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail Prices (January 2017)PDF page 2“Only organizations may apply. Individuals may not apply (except voting registration officials).”USPS original Someone in authority, such as the president or treasurer, signs the application, never a printer or mailing agent.21PS Form 3624: Application to Mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail Prices (January 2017)PDF page 2“The application must be signed by someone in authority in the organization, such as the president or treasurer. It must not be signed by a printer or mailing agent.”USPS original The Pricing and Classification Service Center reviews it, which may take up to 14 days.20USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 1“Once the Pricing & Classification Service Center (PCSC) receives the application in the queue, it will be assigned to a Nonprofit Specialist for an eligibility review. … It may take up to 14 days to complete the review.”USPS original

A mail class is a group of domestic mail defined by content, such as personal correspondence or printed advertising.1Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 121“The classification of domestic mail according to content (e.g., personal correspondence versus printed advertising) and other factors.”USPS original Each class divides into products, and each product into price categories.22Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 39“The grouping of mailable matter into mail classes, products, and price categories, according to content, weight, size, and preparation standards as defined in the Mail Classification Schedule.”USPS original23Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 179“A subdivision of a class or product by type of price such as single-piece, presorted, and automation prices or retail, Commercial Base, and Commercial Plus prices.”USPS original For competitive products, the shipping services that private carriers also offer, USPS uses the word product rather than mail class.24Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 45“A category of postal products and services (commonly referred to as shipping services) for which similar products and services are offered by private sector carriers.”USPS original1Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 121“The term product, rather than mail class, is used for the divisions within competitive products.”USPS original Each class and product has its own service standards, USPS's stated delivery goals, usually measured in days.5Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 203“Stated delivery performance goals for each mail class and product that are usually measured by days for the period of time taken by USPS to handle the mail from end-to-end (that is, from the point of entry into the mailstream to delivery to the final destination).”USPS original

First-Class Mail carries correspondence, bills and anything sealed against inspection.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“A class of mail that includes all matter wholly or partly in writing or typewriting, all actual and personal correspondence, all bills and statements of account, and all matter sealed or otherwise closed against inspection.”USPS original USPS Marketing Mail carries pieces under 16 ounces, such as circulars and catalogs.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“A class of mail that weighs less than 16 ounces. … These subclasses include circulars, printed matter, pamphlets, catalogs, newsletters, direct mail, and merchandise.”USPS original Periodicals carries newspapers and magazines sent to an established list of subscribers or requesters.25PostalPro: Periodicals“The Periodicals class of mail is designed for newspapers, magazines, and other periodical publications whose primary purpose is transmitting information to an established list of subscribers or requesters.”USPS original A publisher reports each issue's advertising percentage, because it sets part of the postage.25PostalPro: Periodicals“The Postal Service requires publishers, qualifying for Periodicals mailing privileges, to provide the percentage of advertising and non-advertising content for each issue to determine the pound price charge (DMM 207.2.1.5) of the mailing.”USPS original Periodicals Accuracy, Grading, and Evaluation is a USPS certification of the software that calculates that percentage.26Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 161“A certification process that evaluates the accuracy of publication and print planning (ppp) software in calculating the copy weight and percentage of advertising in a publication according to mailing requirements that determine eligibility and pricing.”USPS original

Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail are expedited services for shipping any mailable matter.8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“An expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, subject to certain standards such as size and weight limits and certain hazardous materials restrictions, with a money-back guarantee for next-day or second-day delivery in most cases.”USPS original7Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 180“An expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, subject to certain standards such as size and weight limits.”USPS original USPS Ground Advantage, a ground service for packages up to 70 pounds, replaced First-Class Package Service and Parcel Select Ground in 2023.15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“USPS Ground Advantage - This ground shipping sub-category provides a simple, reliable, and affordable way to ship packages weighing up to 70 pounds with day specific (non-guaranteed) delivery in 2 to 5 days across the continental U.S.”USPS original27Publication 205 Electronic Verification System (eVS®) Business and Technical Guidepage 2“2023 USPS Ground Advantage replaces First-Class Package Service and Parcel Select Ground”USPS original Parcel Select is a commercial product, typically for gifts and merchandise.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“a commercial based product typically containing gifts and merchandise that can be sent using Parcel Select.”USPS original Package Services is the class for Bound Printed Matter, Library Mail and Media Mail.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“class of mail that comprises three subclasses: Bound Printed Matter, Library Mail, and Media Mail.”USPS original International mail, which starts in one country and ends in another, has products of its own, such as First-Class Mail International.28Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 107“Mail originating in one country and destinating in another.”USPS original11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Outbound Single-Piece First-Class Mail International consists of outbound international letter and flat-shaped pieces (destined for delivery outside of the United States) that are subject to the provisions of the Universal Postal Convention of the Universal Postal Union and that are not entered as Priority Mail International.”USPS original

Price categories, such as single-piece, presorted and automation prices, divide a class or product by type of price.23Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 179“A subdivision of a class or product by type of price such as single-piece, presorted, and automation prices or retail, Commercial Base, and Commercial Plus prices.”USPS original Automation prices need mail that is presorted and prebarcoded.29Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 26“A price category for mail that is presorted and prebarcoded and that meets addressing, readability, and other requirements for mail that can be processed on automated equipment.”USPS original Some mail is defined by who sends or receives it, such as Election Mail, any item mailed to or from authorized election officials.30PostalPro: Election Mail and Political Mail“Election Mail is any item mailed to or from authorized election officials that enables citizens to participate in the voting process, such as ballots, sample ballots, voter registration cards, absentee ballot applications, and polling place notifications.”USPS original The Domestic Mail Manual holds the standards for each class and all postage prices and fees.31Appendix D: Glossary of ACS™ Acronyms and TerminologyPDF page 5“The USPS manual that contains the standards governing domestic mail services, descriptions of the mail classes and services and conditions governing their uses, standards for price eligibility and mail preparation, and all postage prices and fees.”USPS original The Pricing and Classification Service Center is USPS's one source for classification decisions.32PostalPro: Pricing and Classification Service Center“The Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) is a national center that provides one source for mail classification decisions which serves both external customers and field employees in need of direction on price application, mail eligibility and mailing standards.”USPS original

First-Class Mail includes all personal correspondence, all bills and statements of account, and all matter sealed against inspection.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“A class of mail that includes all matter wholly or partly in writing or typewriting, all actual and personal correspondence, all bills and statements of account, and all matter sealed or otherwise closed against inspection.”USPS original Any mailable matter may also go by First-Class Mail.33Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 85“Any mailable matter may be sent by First-Class Mail service.”USPS original Matter that must go at First-Class Mail prices and weighs more than 13 ounces goes at Priority Mail prices, unless sent by Priority Mail Express.7Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 180“Unless Priority Mail Express service is used, Priority Mail prices are required for a mailpiece that weighs more than 13 ounces when the mailpiece contains matter that must be mailed at First-Class Mail prices.”USPS original

First-Class Mail comes as letters, postcards and large envelopes, also called flats, up to 13 ounces.15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“First-Class Mail - This category encompasses letters, cards, or large envelopes destined for either domestic (up to 13 ounces) or international (up to nearly 1 pound) delivery.”USPS original11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Large Envelopes (Flats)”USPS original A flat is larger than a letter in at least one dimension: over 11.5 inches long, 6.125 inches high or 0.25 inch thick.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“and at least one dimension exceeds | 11.5 inches | 6.125 inches | 0.25 inch”USPS original A First-Class Mail flat measures up to 15 by 12 inches and 0.75 inch thick.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Maximum | 15 inches | 12 inches | 0.75 inch | 13 ounces”USPS original

As of October 4, 2026, a single retail First-Class Mail piece costs:10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Notice 123 • Effective October 04, 2026”USPS original

• A letter with stamps: $0.82 up to 1 ounce, $1.11 up to 2, $1.40 up to 3 and $1.69 up to 3.5.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Letters (Stamped)1,4 | Weight Not Over (oz.) | | | --- | --- | | 1 | $0.82 | | 2 | 1.11 | | 3 | 1.40 | | 3.5 | 1.69 |”USPS original
• A metered letter: $0.78, $1.07, $1.36 and $1.65 at those weights.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Letters (Metered)1,4 | Weight Not Over (oz.) | | | --- | --- | | 1 | $0.78 | | 2 | 1.07 | | 3 | 1.36 | | 3.5 | 1.65 |”USPS original
• A postcard: $0.65.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Postcards3 | | | --- | | $0.65 |”USPS original
• A large envelope: $1.69 up to 1 ounce, rising to $5.24 up to 13 ounces.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Large Envelopes (Flats)2 | Weight Not Over (oz.) | | | --- | --- | | 1 | $1.69 | … | 13 | 5.24 |”USPS original

A First-Class Mail piece is signed for only when the sender buys an extra service that keeps a record of delivery, which includes a signature.34DMM 503: Extra Services“provide optional services, such as insurance coverage, restricted delivery, and evidence of mailing, or a record of delivery (which includes a signature).”USPS original35Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 6“Mail that requires the signature of the addressee or addressee’s agent upon receipt to provide evidence of delivery or indemnification for loss or damage. Accountable mail includes Priority Mail Express service and Special Service mail such as Certified Mail, Collect on Delivery, Insured Mail for more than $200, Registered Mail, Return Receipt, and Signature Confirmation.”USPS original Certified Mail, which gives the sender a mailing receipt and electronic verification of delivery, is open to First-Class Mail.34DMM 503: Extra Services“Certified Mail provides the sender with a mailing receipt and, upon request, electronic verification that an article was delivered or that a delivery attempt was made.”USPS original36Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 84“Only mailable matter prepaid with postage at First-Class Mail or Priority Mail prices may be sent as Certified Mail.”USPS original So is Registered Mail, USPS's most secure service, which tracks a piece by receipts from acceptance to delivery.34DMM 503: Extra Services“Registered Mail is the most secure service that the USPS offers. It incorporates a system of receipts to monitor the movement of the mail from the point of acceptance to delivery. … | **Priority Mail** **First-Class Mail** **USPS Ground Advantage — Commercial** **USPS Ground Advantage — Retail** | **Return Receipt** **Signature Confirmation** |”USPS original USPS keeps the record of delivery, with the recipient's signature, and a sender gets it by buying a return receipt at mailing.34DMM 503: Extra Services“USPS maintains a record of delivery (which includes the recipient’s signature). Customers may obtain a delivery record by purchasing a return receipt … Customers may obtain a record of delivery (which includes the recipient’s signature) by purchasing a return receipt … A return receipt may be purchased at the time of mailing and provides a mailer with evidence of delivery (to whom the mail was delivered and date of delivery), and information about the recipient’s actual delivery address.”USPS original

USPS Marketing Mail is a class for pieces that weigh less than 16 ounces, such as circulars, catalogs and merchandise.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“A class of mail that weighs less than 16 ounces. … These subclasses include circulars, printed matter, pamphlets, catalogs, newsletters, direct mail, and merchandise.”USPS original Until January 22, 2017, it was called Standard Mail.37Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMpb) ACS™ Technical Guidepage 3“On January 22, 2017, Standard Mail® underwent a name change and was rebranded as USPS Marketing Mail™”USPS original It carries eligible matter that does not have to go by First-Class Mail or Periodicals.38Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 212“A mail class consisting of eligible matter that is not required to be mailed using First-Class Mail or Periodicals service.”USPS original It has no single-piece price, and neither does Periodicals.39Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 210“It is not available for Standard Mail or Periodicals pieces.”USPS original

Periodicals is the class for magazines, newspapers and other publications issued at least four times a year from a known office of publication.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“A class of mail consisting of magazines, newspapers, or other publications formed of printed sheets that are issued at least four times a year at regular, specified intervals (frequency) from a known office of publication.”USPS original USPS uses each issue's advertising percentage to set the mailing's pound price charge.25PostalPro: Periodicals“The Postal Service requires publishers, qualifying for Periodicals mailing privileges, to provide the percentage of advertising and non-advertising content for each issue to determine the pound price charge (DMM 207.2.1.5) of the mailing.”USPS original A marked copy is a copy of an issue with all its advertising marked, so USPS can verify the advertising content.40Periodicals: Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 1“Publishers supply a copy of the issue to be reviewed, with all advertising marked so the advertising content can be verified by the USPS.”USPS original Periodicals Accuracy, Grading, and Evaluation certification lets Periodicals mailers skip sending a marked copy of every issue, unless postal officials ask.41PostalPro: Periodicals Accuracy Grading and Evaluation (PAGE) Program“PAGE certification allows Periodicals mailers to forego the submission of marked copies for every edition of every issue, unless otherwise requested by postal officials.”USPS original

Priority Mail Express and Priority Mail are expedited services for any mailable matter, within size and weight limits.8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“An expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, subject to certain standards such as size and weight limits and certain hazardous materials restrictions, with a money-back guarantee for next-day or second-day delivery in most cases.”USPS original7Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 180“An expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, subject to certain standards such as size and weight limits.”USPS original Priority Mail Express adds a money-back guarantee for next-day or second-day delivery in most cases.8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“An expedited service for shipping any mailable matter, subject to certain standards such as size and weight limits and certain hazardous materials restrictions, with a money-back guarantee for next-day or second-day delivery in most cases.”USPS original Priority Mail postage depends on weight up to 70 pounds, zone and sometimes dimensions, except for flat rate and some other prices.7Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 180“Except for Flat Rate Envelopes, Flat Rate Boxes, Critical Mail, and Commercial Plus Cubic, Priority Mail postage is charged for each addressed piece according to weight (up to 70 pounds), zone, and, in some cases, dimensions.”USPS original Both services are closed against postal inspection.7Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 180“Priority Mail service is closed against postal inspection.”USPS original8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“Priority Mail Express service is closed against postal inspection.”USPS original

USPS Ground Advantage is a ground service for packages up to 70 pounds and 130 inches in combined length and girth.15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“USPS Ground Advantage - This ground shipping sub-category provides a simple, reliable, and affordable way to ship packages weighing up to 70 pounds with day specific (non-guaranteed) delivery in 2 to 5 days across the continental U.S.”USPS original11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“All Others | 130 inches in combined length and girth | | | 70 pounds”USPS original It delivers in 2 to 5 days across the continental U.S., without a guarantee.15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“USPS Ground Advantage - This ground shipping sub-category provides a simple, reliable, and affordable way to ship packages weighing up to 70 pounds with day specific (non-guaranteed) delivery in 2 to 5 days across the continental U.S.”USPS original It also ships between the contiguous states and Alaska, Hawaii or a U.S. territory.43INFORMATIONAL - Adjustments to Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage Service Expectations for Noncontiguous States and TerritoriesPDF page 2“USPS Ground Advantage packages between the contiguous United States and the following locations will have a 10-day or more service expectation: Alaska, Hawaii, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, United States Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands and the Freely Associated States.”USPS original Since October 1, 2026, USPS has expected those packages to take 10 days or more, mostly by surface transportation.44INFORMATIONAL - Adjustments to Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage Service Expectations for Noncontiguous States and TerritoriesPDF page 1“Effective October 1, 2026, the Postal Service is adjusting service expectations for Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage packages for noncontiguous states and territories of the United States.”USPS original43INFORMATIONAL - Adjustments to Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage Service Expectations for Noncontiguous States and TerritoriesPDF page 2“USPS Ground Advantage packages between the contiguous United States and the following locations will have a 10-day or more service expectation: Alaska, Hawaii, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, United States Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands and the Freely Associated States. … Regardless of weight, noncontiguous USPS Ground Advantage packages will now primarily utilize surface transportation.”USPS original It replaced First-Class Package Service and Parcel Select Ground on July 9, 2023, and shares First-Class's mail class code.27Publication 205 Electronic Verification System (eVS®) Business and Technical Guidepage 2“2023 USPS Ground Advantage replaces First-Class Package Service and Parcel Select Ground”USPS original16Federal Register: Domestic Competitive Products Pricing and Mailing Standards Changes, USPS Ground Advantage (88 FR 32824, May 22, 2023)“DATES: Effective July 9, 2023.”USPS original45Publication 199: Intelligent Mail Package Barcode (IMpb) Implementation Guide for Confirmation Services and Electronic Payment Systemspage 461“First-Class/USPS Ground Advantage”USPS original

USPS Ground Advantage Retail prices take any mailable matter, and Commercial prices need PC Postage, an approved postage meter or a permit imprint.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Any mailable matter may be mailed as USPS Ground Advantage Retail mail. … Postage for USPS Ground Advantage Commercial mail must be paid for by one of the following methods: … Registered end-users of USPS-approved PC Postage products when using a qualifying shipping label managed by PC Postage system. … USPS-approved IBI postage meters that electronically transmit transactional data to the USPS. … Permit imprint.”USPS original Cubic prices, set by cubic size and zone, take parcels up to 1 cubic foot and 20 pounds.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Zone/Cube – Prices are based on cubic size and zone … Maximum Cubic | Various, not to exceed 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, or 1.0 cubic feet | | | 20 pounds”USPS original

A piece mailed in that packaging is charged the Priority Mail price, however the packaging is refolded or its markings covered.46DMM 125: Retail Priority Mail, Mail Preparation“The mailer of any material mailed in USPS-provided Priority Mail packaging, regardless of how the packaging is reconfigured or how markings may be obliterated, is charged the appropriate Priority Mail price.”USPS original

A Priority Mail piece paid with stamps that weighs 10 ounces or less, and is no more than one half-inch thick, may go in any collection box.47DMM 126: Retail Priority Mail, Deposit“Priority Mail pieces that weigh 10 ounces or less and measure one half-inch or less in thickness may be deposited into any collection box, mail chute, or mail receptacle, or at any place where mail is accepted if the full required postage is paid with postage stamps.”USPS original So may retail First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage Retail pieces within those limits.48DMM 136: Retail First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage Retail, Deposit“Retail First-Class Mail (letters, cards, flats) and USPS Ground Advantage — Retail must be deposited as follows: … Except as provided in 1.0b, items may be deposited into any collection box, mail receptacle, or at any place where mail is accepted if the full required postage is paid with postage stamps.”USPS original A heavier or thicker piece paid only with stamps goes to an employee at a Post Office counter instead.47DMM 126: Retail Priority Mail, Deposit“The sender must present such items to an employee at a retail service counter in a Postal Service facility.”USPS original48DMM 136: Retail First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage Retail, Deposit“Items bearing only postage stamps as postage payment and that weigh more than 10 ounces, or measure more than one half-inch in thickness, may not be deposited into any collection box, picked up during the normal delivery and collection of mail, or through Pickup on Demand service.”USPS original

Parcel Select is a commercial product, typically for gifts and merchandise.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“a commercial based product typically containing gifts and merchandise that can be sent using Parcel Select.”USPS original Its prices fall with destination entry, when the shipper enters parcels at the facility or delivery unit that serves the address.12Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 63“Periodicals, Parcel Select, and Bound Printed Matter prices for pieces properly prepared and entered by the mailer at the sectional center facility (SCF) or other postal facility designated as an SCF that serves the delivery address on the pieces.”USPS original13Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 62“Periodicals, Parcel Select, and Bound Printed Matter prices for pieces properly prepared and entered by the mailer at the delivery unit that serves the delivery address on the pieces.”USPS original USPS Ground Advantage, Parcel Select and both Priority Mail services price a parcel over 1,728 cubic inches on actual or dimensional weight, whichever is greater.49Publication 205 Electronic Verification System (eVS®) Business and Technical Guidepage 16“Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select parcels exceeding 1,728 cubic inches are priced on actual weight or dimensional weight, whichever is greater.”USPS original

Package Services is the class for Bound Printed Matter, Library Mail and Media Mail.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“class of mail that comprises three subclasses: Bound Printed Matter, Library Mail, and Media Mail.”USPS original Bound Printed Matter carries permanently bound printed sheets, such as catalogs and directories, up to 15 pounds.9Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 26“A Package Services product weighing not more than 15 pounds that consists of permanently bound sheets of which at least 90% are printed with advertising, promotional, directory, or editorial matter (or a combination of such matter). … Examples include book, catalog, and telephone directory.”USPS original Media Mail carries books, sound recordings and film, priced by weight without regard to zone.17Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 132“A Package Services product that consist of books, sheet music, printed educational material, film, sound recordings, and computer prerecorded media such as CD-ROMs. … Media Mail prices are based on the weight of the piece without regard to zone.”USPS original Library Mail carries items sent between libraries, museums and other authorized organizations.50Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 115“A Package Services product for items sent to or from or exchanged between academic institutions, public libraries, museums, and other authorized organizations.”USPS original

Some package classes include insurance or USPS Tracking, USPS's updates on an item's trip through to delivery, in their postage:11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“USPS Tracking service provides mailers of USPS Marketing Mail parcels, Package Services, Priority Mail, Parcel Select, and USPS Ground Advantage pieces with end-to-end tracking updates, including confirmation of delivery, as the item travels to its destination.”USPS original

• Priority Mail Express: insurance up to $100, and USPS Tracking.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Insurance, up to $100.00, is included in Priority Mail Express postage.”USPS original15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“Both Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express include basic insurance up to $100, tracking, and proof of delivery services.”USPS original
• Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage: up to $100 of insurance on pieces with an Intelligent Mail package barcode or a retail tracking barcode, and USPS Tracking.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Up to $100.00 of General Insurance coverage is included at no additional cost in the price of Priority Mail pieces that bear an Intelligent Mail package barcode or retail tracking barcode. … Up to $100.00 of General Insurance coverage is included at no additional cost in the price of USPS Ground Advantage pieces that bear an Intelligent Mail package barcode or retail tracking barcode … USPS Tracking service is automatically included with the purchase of items sent via Package Services, Priority Mail, Parcel Select, and USPS Ground Advantage.”USPS original
• Parcel Select and Package Services, Media Mail among them: USPS Tracking.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“USPS Tracking service is automatically included with the purchase of items sent via Package Services, Priority Mail, Parcel Select, and USPS Ground Advantage.”USPS original

USPS Tracking collects no signature.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“USPS Tracking service does not include the collection of any recipient signatures.”USPS original A signature is one of the extra services, and so is insurance on Parcel Select and Package Services, bought only at mailing.51USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 8“These services include: Certified Mail, Registered Mail, Signature Confirmation, Adult Signature, and insurance up to $5,000.”USPS original11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Insurance may be obtained only at the time of mailing and provides the mailer with indemnity for loss, damage, or missing contents for merchandise mailed using Priority Mail Express, Package Services, Parcel Select, USPS Marketing Mail parcels, or items included in pieces sent via First-Class Mail USPS Ground Advantage, or Priority Mail, if the contents would be eligible to be mailed using USPS Marketing Mail, USPS Retail Ground, or Package Services.”USPS original

International mail is mail that starts in one country and ends in another.28Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 107“Mail originating in one country and destinating in another.”USPS original The International Mail Manual is USPS's directive with the official prices and standards for every international mail service.28Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 107“The directive that contains official prices and standards for all international mail services.”USPS original First-Class Mail International carries letters, postcards and large envelopes to other countries: letters up to 3.5 ounces and large envelopes up to 15.994 ounces.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Outbound Single-Piece First-Class Mail International consists of outbound international letter and flat-shaped pieces (destined for delivery outside of the United States) that are subject to the provisions of the Universal Postal Convention of the Universal Postal Union and that are not entered as Priority Mail International. … Maximum | 11.5 inches | 6.125 inches | 0.25 inch | 3.5 ounces … Maximum | 15 inches | 12 inches | 0.75 inches | 15.994 ounces”USPS original15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“First-Class Mail - This category encompasses letters, cards, or large envelopes destined for either domestic (up to 13 ounces) or international (up to nearly 1 pound) delivery.”USPS original First-Class Package International Service is its counterpart for packages and rolls.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Outbound Single-Piece First-Class Package International Service consists of outbound international packages and rolls (destined for delivery outside of the United States).”USPS original51USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 8“First-Class Package International Service, Priority Mail Express International, and Priority Mail International services compete in the e-commerce cross-border business.”USPS original

Priority Mail International is similar to domestic Priority Mail, with prices based on weight and destination country.55Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 186“An international product similar to the domestic Priority Mail product. Prices are based on weight and destination country.”USPS original Its postage includes merchandise insurance up to $200 and up to $100 for reconstructing nonnegotiable documents.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Nonnegotiable document reconstruction up to $100.00 and merchandise insurance up to $200.00 is included in the price of postage.”USPS original As of October 4, 2026, a retail Priority Mail International Flat Rate Envelope costs $32.65 to Canada, price group 1, and $48.80 to $62.35 elsewhere.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Notice 123 • Effective October 04, 2026 … | Price Groups | Canada 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | … | Flat Rate Envelopes (Max. Wt. 4 lbs.) | $32.65 | $48.80 | $49.75 | $54.55 | $52.30 | $53.00 | $62.35 | $50.55 |”USPS original A retail parcel of up to 1 pound costs $43.55 to Canada and $61.45 to $83.15 elsewhere.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“| Canada 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | … | 1 | $43.55 | $61.45 | $69.40 | $70.40 | $71.70 | $66.25 | $67.05 | $65.75 | $68.35 | $63.05 | … | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | … | 1 | $65.05 | $70.65 | $72.15 | $65.20 | $69.50 | $82.30 | $66.05 | $68.50 | $83.15 | $69.70 |”USPS original

Priority Mail Express International is an expedited service available to over 190 countries.8Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 181“An expedited international service with additional features that is available to over 190 countries, providing delivery to foreign cities in most cases within 3 to 5 days.”USPS original To a limited number of destinations, it has a postage-refund guarantee of date-certain delivery.11PRC: Mail Classification Schedule through July 12, 2026 (docx, converted to HTML with mammoth)“Priority Mail Express International with guarantee service provides a postage-refund guarantee for date-certain delivery to a limited number of foreign destinations.”USPS original As of October 4, 2026, its retail Flat Rate Envelope costs $62.70 to $102.50, by price group.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“Notice 123 • Effective October 04, 2026 … | Price Groups | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | … | Flat Rate Envelopes (Max. Wt. 4 lbs.) | $62.70 | $83.35 | $79.80 | $85.20 | $87.10 | $89.20 | $102.50 | $80.85 |”USPS original Other pieces are priced by weight and price group.10Notice 123: Price List (effective October 4, 2026)“| Weight Not Over (lbs.) | Price Group |”USPS original

Global Express Guaranteed was USPS's premium international expedited service, run in alliance with FedEx Express.56Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 98“The premium international expedited delivery service that is a business alliance between USPS and FedEx Express.”USPS original Its delivery was guaranteed to destination-specific standards, or the postage could be refunded.56Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 98“GXG service is guaranteed to meet destination-specific delivery standards or the postage may be refunded.”USPS original USPS suspended it for all destinations on September 29, 2024, and Post Offices accept no Global Express Guaranteed items until further notice.53Postal Bulletin 22660: IMM revision, Changes to Global Express Guaranteed Service (Oct 3, 2024)“Effective September 29, 2024, Global Express Guaranteed® (GXG®) service was suspended to all destinations. … Until further notice, Post Office® facilities will not accept GXG items for any destination.”USPS original57IMM 211 Global Express Guaranteed, Description and Physical Characteristics (as online Nov 2026)“Note: Global Express Guaranteed service is suspended as of September 29, 2024.”USPS original

A price category is a subdivision of a class or product by type of price.23Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 179“A subdivision of a class or product by type of price such as single-piece, presorted, and automation prices or retail, Commercial Base, and Commercial Plus prices.”USPS original Single-piece prices are open to the general public and need no special sorting.39Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 210“Single-piece prices are available to the general public and to commercial mailers and require no special sortation.”USPS original Commercial prices, such as presorted and automation prices, need the mailer to meet preparation requirements and minimum volumes.4Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 48“(1) A general term that distinguishes postage prices such as presorted or automation prices available to mailers who meet various preparation requirements and minimum volumes versus retail prices (i.e., single-piece prices) available to the public and not requiring special preparation or minimum volumes.”USPS original Business mail discounts need at least 500 pieces of First-Class Mail, or 200 pieces or 50 pounds of USPS Marketing Mail, per mailing.18Election Mail Permit Based SolutionsPDF page 1“To qualify for business mail postage discounts, a minimum number of pieces is required per mailing: … 500 pieces for First-Class Mail … 200 pieces (or 50 pounds of mail) for USPS Marketing Mail”USPS original Nonprofit prices are lower USPS Marketing Mail prices for qualified organizations, and preferred prices for Periodicals publishers authorized as nonprofits.58Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 152“(1) A preferred price for a Periodicals publisher authorized as a nonprofit organization. (2) A lower Standard Mail price for qualified organizations and national and state political committees.”USPS original

Automation prices need mail that is presorted and prebarcoded, and they are generally lower than single-piece or nonautomation presorted prices.29Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 26“A price category for mail that is presorted and prebarcoded and that meets addressing, readability, and other requirements for mail that can be processed on automated equipment. … Automation prices are generally lower than prices for single-piece mail or nonautomation presorted mail.”USPS original Saturation prices need mail in walk sequence to at least 90% of a route's active residential addresses, or 75% of all its active addresses.59Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 198“A carrier route price for Standard Mail and Periodicals letters and flats that requires preparing the mail in walk sequence, with mail to 90% or more of the active residential addresses or 75% or more of the total number of active possible delivery addresses per route receiving this mail.”USPS original Destination entry prices are lower when the mailer carries mail to a postal facility, and generally lowest at the facility closest to delivery.12Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 63“A postage price lower than the related nonentry price for mail that a mailer transports directly to a postal facility. Generally, the closer the facility is to the final delivery, the lower the price.”USPS original

Zoned prices depend on weight and the distance traveled, counted in zones.3Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 238“A price structure for certain Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, Periodicals (except for the nonadvertising portion), Package Services (Standard Post and Bound Printed Matter services), and Parcel Select products that is based on weight and distance traveled (or zones crossed).”USPS original The National Zone Charts Matrix is USPS's table of the zone between each entry ZIP Code and each delivery ZIP Code.14PostalPro: National Zone Charts Matrix“The National Zone Charts Matrix assists mailers in determining the distance that a mailpiece travels based on the ZIP Code™ where the mailpiece enters the mailstream (origination) and the ZIP Code that will deliver the mailpiece to the addressee (destination).”USPS original3Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 238“A table that identifies the appropriate distance code (i.e., zone) assigned to each originating and destination pairing for every ZIP Code area in the nation.”USPS original

Market dominant products are mailing services whose prices USPS can set with limited competition, such as First-Class Mail and Periodicals.60Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 134“Postal products and services (commonly referred to as mailing services) over which USPS exercises sufficient market power that it can effectively set their price with limited competition.”USPS original15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“Market-Dominant services include First-Class Mail, Marketing Mail, Periodicals, some types of International mail, Package Services, and certain other services.”USPS original Since August 29, 2021, their prices follow a price cap partly based on the Consumer Price Index, with some added pricing authority.15USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 7“Prices in effect since August 29, 2021, are subject to a price cap system partially based on the increase in the CPI-U, but also allowing for some additional pricing flexibility and authority, including a density-based rate authority, retirement-based rate authority, and authority for non-compensatory classes.”USPS original Until then, the law capped each class's price changes at the Consumer Price Index.23Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 179“For market dominant products, the law caps price modifications at the class level to the annual Consumer Price Index.”USPS original61USPS Report on Form 10-K, fiscal year 2025PDF page 16“The PAEA subjected our Market-Dominant services to a price cap rigidly tied to the CPI-U, but the PAEA also required the PRC to review that price-cap system after 10 years and to modify or replace it as necessary to allow the achievement of financial stability and other statutory objectives.”USPS original

Competitive products are shipping services that private carriers also offer, such as Priority Mail and Parcel Select.24Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 45“A category of postal products and services (commonly referred to as shipping services) for which similar products and services are offered by private sector carriers. … Competitive products include Priority Mail Express service, Priority Mail service, Parcel Select service, Parcel Return Service, Premium Forwarding Service, and most international mail products except First-Class Mail International service, which is categorized as a market dominant product.”USPS original USPS is free to price them if they cover their costs, take no subsidy from market dominant products and contribute to institutional costs.23Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 179“For competitive products, USPS is free to price these products as long as they cover their costs, are not subsidized by the market dominant products, and make an appropriate contribution to institutional costs.”USPS original

Election Mail is any item mailed to or from authorized election officials that helps citizens take part in voting.30PostalPro: Election Mail and Political Mail“Election Mail is any item mailed to or from authorized election officials that enables citizens to participate in the voting process, such as ballots, sample ballots, voter registration cards, absentee ballot applications, and polling place notifications.”USPS original Voters return ballots at First-Class Mail prices unless they pay for a premium service.62Ballot Mail & Political Mail STIDs Fact SheetPDF page 1“Return Ballot Mail (i.e., ballots that voters return to election officials) is sent at First-Class Mail prices, unless a voter opts to pay for a premium service.”USPS original USPS strongly recommends First-Class Mail for all ballots.63Ballot Mail & Political Mail STIDs Fact SheetPDF page 2“We strongly recommend the use of First-Class Mail service for all ballots.”USPS original Political Mail is material mailed for campaign purposes by candidates, party committees and other groups that drive voter mobilization.64Ballot Mail & Political Mail STIDs Fact SheetPDF page 3“Any material mailed for campaign purposes by a registered political candidate, campaign committee, or committee of a political party, or political message mailing by a political action committee (PAC), super PAC, or other organization engaging in an effort to influence or drive voter mobilization.”USPS original

Official mail is mail that federal law lets U.S. government officials send, often without prepaid postage.65Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 154“Mail authorized by federal law to be sent by U.S. government officials, often without postage prepayment. It includes franked mail sent by members of Congress and penalty mail sent by U.S. Government agencies.”USPS original It includes franked mail from members of Congress and penalty mail from government agencies.65Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 154“Mail authorized by federal law to be sent by U.S. government officials, often without postage prepayment. It includes franked mail sent by members of Congress and penalty mail sent by U.S. Government agencies.”USPS original Agencies reimburse USPS for the penalty mail they send.66Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 160“Agencies then reimburse USPS for the penalty mail service they receive.”USPS original Franked mail bears a signature or other required marking instead of a postage stamp.67Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 91“The mailpiece bears a written signature, printed facsimile signature, or other required marking instead of a postage stamp.”USPS original

Free matter for the blind or handicapped is material mailed free of postage by or for people who cannot read conventionally printed material.68Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 96“Material mailed free of postage if mailed by or for the use of blind or other persons who cannot read or use conventionally printed materials because of a physical handicap.”USPS original It belongs to no mail class, but USPS treats it as First-Class Mail for processing, delivery and handling if undeliverable.68Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 96“Such mail is not considered part of any particular mail class but is treated as First-Class Mail pieces solely for determining standards for processing and delivery and for handling if undeliverable.”USPS original The piece is marked Free Matter for the Blind or Handicapped in the upper right corner of the address side.68Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 96“The mail must be marked “Free Matter for the Blind or Handicapped” in the upper right corner of the address side.”USPS original Free matter is also available as an international service.68Publication 32: Glossary of Postal TermsPDF page 96“Free matter is also available as an international service.”USPS original

A Nonprofit Authorization is the privilege, granted by law, to mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices.19USPS Nonprofit Marketing Mail Fact Sheet PDF page 1“Authorization to mail at the Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail (nonprofit) prices is a privilege granted by law only to authorized organizations.”USPS original Those prices are about 40% lower than regular USPS Marketing Mail prices.19USPS Nonprofit Marketing Mail Fact Sheet PDF page 1“Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices are discounted approximately 40% from regular USPS Marketing Mail prices.”USPS original Each organization name holds one authorization.19USPS Nonprofit Marketing Mail Fact Sheet PDF page 1“Only one NPA (Nonprofit Authorization) per organization name.”USPS original

An authorized organization can mail at those prices at any Post Office in the United States that accepts bulk mailings.69USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 3“If an organization has been authorized and provided with a Nonprofit Authorization number (NPA), they can mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices at any post office that accepts bulk mailings within the United States.”USPS original Once approved, it opens a bulk mailing permit where it will present mailings, or gives its authorization number to a mail service provider.20USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 1“A bulk mailing permit can be opened at the Post Office or Business Mail Entry Unit (BMEU) where the organization plans on presenting mailings. … The organization will provide their Nonprofit Authorization (NPA) Number to the MSP in order to obtain the Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices.”USPS original It need not apply in the state where it received its Internal Revenue Code, the code the IRS assigns it.69USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 3“No, you do not have to apply for nonprofit prices in the same state you received your Internal Revenue Code. … You may apply to mail at nonprofit prices while the Internal Revenue Services (IRS) assigns your Internal Revenue Code (IRC).”USPS original

An organization may apply while the IRS is still assigning that code.69USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 3“You may apply to mail at nonprofit prices while the Internal Revenue Services (IRS) assigns your Internal Revenue Code (IRC).”USPS original A federal income tax exemption counts as evidence that an organization qualifies, but none is required.70DMM 703: Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail and Other Unique Eligibility“An exemption from the payment of federal income tax is not required to qualify for the Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices. … Such exemption is considered as evidence of qualification for preferred postal prices, but is not the controlling factor in the decision.”USPS original A church or religious organization may send Form 1023, its application to the IRS for recognition of exemption.69USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 3“If you are a church or religious organization that has services with programs, you may submit Form 1023 “Application for Recognition of Exemption” under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code.”USPS original The form must be signed and dated, with proof of payment to the IRS, and USPS uses it in place of the IRS letter.69USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 3“Form 1023 is applicable for churches only; it must be signed, dated, and the customer must show proof of payment to the IRS. … We will use this form in lieu of the IRS letter code, 501(c)3.”USPS original As of August 2024, USPS denies an application from any other organization without its code as Premature, or asks it to withdraw.69USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 3“If you are not a religious organization and do not have your IRC (yet), we will deny your application, citing “Premature” or ask you to withdraw, because our approval is based on the IRC assigned. … Product Solutions August 2024”USPS original

The Domestic Mail Manual is USPS's manual of standards for domestic mail services, price eligibility and mail preparation, with all postage prices and fees.31Appendix D: Glossary of ACS™ Acronyms and TerminologyPDF page 5“The USPS manual that contains the standards governing domestic mail services, descriptions of the mail classes and services and conditions governing their uses, standards for price eligibility and mail preparation, and all postage prices and fees.”USPS original The prices and fees USPS charges appear in Notice 123, the Price List.2Appendix C: ACS™ Product Code Information and Detailspage 5“Actual fees and postage charged is identified in DMM Notice 123.”USPS original71Appendix D: Glossary of ACS™ Acronyms and TerminologyPDF page 6“The Price List is a 44-page publication that contains domestic and international prices and fees in a concise and accessible manner.”USPS original The Mail Classification Schedule describes every product USPS offers to the public.1Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 121“A description of every publicly available USPS product that forms a standard framework when reviewing, adding, modifying, or eliminating products.”USPS original

The Pricing and Classification Service Center decides classification questions for mailers and for USPS field employees.32PostalPro: Pricing and Classification Service Center“The Pricing and Classification Service Center (PCSC) is a national center that provides one source for mail classification decisions which serves both external customers and field employees in need of direction on price application, mail eligibility and mailing standards.”USPS original National Customer Rulings is a voluntary program that issues classification decisions on proposed mailings before they reach a Business Mail Entry office.32PostalPro: Pricing and Classification Service Center“National Customer Rulings is a voluntary program that provides national mailers with guidance and support on mailpiece design and price eligibility. … The program issues classification decisions on proposed mailings before they are presented at a Business Mail Entry office.”USPS original A Customer Support Ruling is USPS's official clarification of a mailing requirement, with examples of specific mailpieces.72Publication 32: Glossary of Postal Termspage 55“An official clarification of a mailing requirement issued by USPS when needed. The ruling presents examples of specific mailpieces and an analysis of how the mailing standard applies.”USPS original

An organization may not mail at nonprofit prices before its application is approved.75USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 2“An organization may not mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices at a Post Office before an application is approved.”USPS original Civil and criminal penalties apply to false, fictitious or fraudulent statements on a Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail mailing.19USPS Nonprofit Marketing Mail Fact Sheet PDF page 1“Civil and criminal penalties apply to false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements made in connection with a Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail mailing.”USPS original

While its application is pending, an organization pays regular USPS Marketing Mail prices to qualify for a refund.75USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 2“While an application is pending, postage must be paid at the applicable USPS Marketing Mail prices to qualify for a refund.”USPS original Once authorized, it may be refunded what it paid above nonprofit prices on mailings entered while it waited, back to the authorization's effective date.75USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 2“If an authorization to mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices is issued, the mailer may be refunded the postage paid at the Post Office where mailings were entered while the application was pending for any amount that exceeds the Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail prices since the effective date of the authorization.”USPS original That date is the later of the application date and the date the organization became eligible.75USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 2“The effective date of the Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail price authorization is the date of the application, or the date of the organization’s eligibility, whichever is later.”USPS original No refund is made for mailings entered before the application, for postage paid at a price other than USPS Marketing Mail, or after a denial with no appeal.75USPS Nonprofit Authorizations - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 2“For mailings entered prior to submission of the application. … If postage was paid at any eligible price other than USPS Marketing Mail. … If the application (PS Form 3624) is denied and no appeal is filed.”USPS original

Material printed with the word catalog or another class's permit imprint is ineligible for Periodicals prices.76Newspaper Mail Preparation & EntryPDF page 4“Material that contains any one of the following printed items or that is referred to in a component of the Periodicals mailpiece (by the use of one of these items) is ineligible to be mailed at Periodicals prices: … The word “catalog.” … A First-Class Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, Parcel Select, or Package Services permit imprint.”USPS original A postage statement whose pieces claim more than one Election Mail or Political Mail characteristic is identified as none of them.77Mail.dat Technical Specifications R65.0.0.0PDF page 436“All pieces on a statement must claim only one of the following Election Mail - Non-Ballot Materials, Election Mail - Official Ballots, or Political Mail. The statement will not be identified as any.”USPS original

Business mailings cannot be entered at commercial prices until the annual mailing fee is paid.78Election Mail Permit Based SolutionsPDF page 3“Business mailings cannot be entered at commercial prices until the annual mailing fee is paid.”USPS original First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail each need their own, but a Periodicals permit has no annual fee.78Election Mail Permit Based SolutionsPDF page 3“First-Class Mail and Marketing Mail require separate annual mailing fees.”USPS original40Periodicals: Application Process - Frequently Asked QuestionsPDF page 1“Is there an annual fee associated with having a Periodicals permit? A5. No.”USPS original A mailer can request an exception when a mailing misses USPS standards, but USPS grants no exceptions for prices.79BME Mailing Exception Request ProcessPDF page 1“However, in the event a mailing does not meet USPS standards, an exception request may be submitted. … Not all exceptions will be granted. No exceptions will be granted for prices.”USPS original