WATCH: How this new mail rule could affect your ballot, taxes

/ January 5, 2026

From PBS NewsHour.

A new Postal Service rule for how your mail is handled could affect your ballot, taxes and more.

The rule, which went into effect on Christmas Eve, redefines the meaning of a postmark, the date mark printed on most mailed items. In the past, the postmark generally meant the date the USPS received the item. Now, it will mean the date that the USPS processes the item.

For mail senders, there are ways to ensure your ballot, tax documents and more are in compliance with deadlines.

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