The U.S. Postal Service has proposed a new rule clarifying how postmarks are defined and applied, a move officials say will not change current mailing procedures but could impact how election ballots are accepted.
This change means the date stamped on letters, packages and ballots may not always match the actual time they entered the processing system, which could cause confusion for customers who rely on accurate tracking of when their mail was accepted.
Experts say this is another reason for local voters to drop ballots off at a local ballot box, of which there are two in Burien that will be open until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 4:
- Boulevard Park Library: 12015 Roseberg Ave South, Burien, WA 98168
- Burien Town Square Park: (corner of 5th Ave SW and SW 152nd Street) 480 SW 152nd Street Burien, WA 98166
The proposal would add Section 608.11, “Postmarks and Postal Possession,” to the Domestic Mail Manual. Postal officials said the change does not alter current postmarking procedures but is intended to provide a clearer explanation for customers.
The new section would define postmarks, identify which types of Postal Service markings qualify as postmarks, and describe when they are applied. It would also explain that while a postmark, also known as a cancellation, confirms the Postal Service had possession of a mailpiece on the date shown, that date may not reflect the exact day the piece was first accepted.
Officials said the proposed language also outlines options for customers who want evidence of the exact date a mailpiece was first accepted. Postmarks will continue to be applied to single-piece First Class Mail letters and flats in the same way they are today.
