All Holt County offices would like to alert residents and businesses that they should plan ahead when submitting time-sensitive mail, following a recent clarification by the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding postmarking practices.
Under the updated guidance, USPS cannot guarantee that the date it takes possession of a mailpiece will be the date reflected in the postmark. Residents are encouraged to take extra precautions when mailing documents that rely on a postmark to meet statutory or regulatory deadlines. For example: Real Estate payment, Personal Property payments, Vehicle registrations, Early Voting ballot requests and returning ballots, Protest Forms, reporting Personal Property, filing Homestead Exemptions and filing Permissive Exemptions.
Additionally, recent USPS transportation changes may affect how mail moves from local post offices to processing centers. This could further delay when the mail is postmarked.
To help avoid late filings or delinquent payments, county officials recommend that residents and businesses take the following steps when submitting time-sensitive mail:
- Use electronic or online services whenever available to ensure timely submission.
- Mail items early, allowing additional time ahead of deadlines.
- Request a manual (local) postmark at the post office when mailing time-sensitive documents. This service is free and ensures the postmark reflects the date USPS takes possession of the mail piece.
- Consider optional mailing services such as Certified Mail, Registered Mail, or a Certificate of Mailing for added documentation and assurance.
- Drop Box available 24/7 on the East side of the Holt County Courthouse.
Thank you!
Holt County Courthouse
