New USPS Postmark Rule: How to Protect Your Mail-In Ballot
- Donna Miller
- Dec 31, 2025
- 2 min read
Dear Vote Voiced Community,
Mail-in voting remains a trusted and widely used way to participate in our democracy. However, recent clarification around the United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmark Rule makes it more important than ever for voters to understand how and when to return their mail-in ballots.
This information can help ensure your vote is counted.
What Is the USPS Postmark Rule?
The Postmark Rule refers to state laws that require mail-in ballots to be officially postmarked on or before Election Day in order to be counted.
A postmark is the date stamp applied by the USPS showing when mail officially enters the postal system.
Important:
If a ballot does not receive a clear postmark, or is mailed too late to be processed in time, it may be rejected,
even if the voter acted in good faith.
Why This Matters for Voters
Some mail deposited late in the day may not receive a same-day postmark
Certain USPS collection boxes are not emptied daily
Some mail processing methods do not guarantee a visible postmark
Election officials must follow state election law, even when ballots are close or disputed
Planning ahead is the best protection.
How to Make Sure Your Mail-In Ballot Is Counted
Vote Voiced strongly encourages voters to take the following steps:
✔ Mail your ballot at least 7–10 days before Election Day
✔ Hand your ballot to a USPS clerk at a post office counter and request a postmark
✔ Avoid last-minute mailing, even if your state allows ballots to arrive after Election Day
✔ Track your ballot, where tracking tools are available
✔ Use official ballot drop boxes, especially in the final days
✔ Carefully follow all instructions, including signatures and envelope requirements
State-by-State Voting Rules Disclaimer
Voting laws vary by state.
Some states:
Require ballots to be received by Election Day
Accept ballots after Election Day only if postmarked on time
Allow voters to “cure” or fix ballot issues
Have different rules for drop boxes vs. mail delivery
👉 Always verify your state’s official voting rules by checking your state or local election office website.
Vote Voiced provides voter education but does not replace official election guidance.
Our Commitment to Voters
Vote Voiced is a nonpartisan grassroots organization dedicated to voter education, registration, and vote planning.
Our mission is simple:
Every eligible voter deserves the opportunity to cast a ballot—and have that ballot counted.
Thank you for staying informed.
Thank you for reading the Vote Voiced Newsletter.
And thank you for being an active participant in our democracy.
In community and civic power,
Vote Voiced
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