USPS Postmark Changes May Affect Time-Sensitive Submissions

Podiatrists submitting time-sensitive materials by mail may be affected by changes to how the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) postmarks mail. Effective December 24, 2025, USPS postmarks now reflect the date mail is processed instead of the date it is dropped off. With mail processing becoming more centralized, delays between drop-off and postmarking may become more common.

Many podiatry practices still mail documents tied to strict deadlines, including:

• Appeals and reconsideration requests

• Prior authorization submissions

• Medical records for payer audits

• Correspondence with Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs)

Under the new policy, mail dropped off "on time" could be postmarked days later.

Practices may wish to:

• Take mail inside the post office and request a manual postmark

• Use certified or registered mail for proof of mailing

• Obtain a certificate of mailing

• Use electronic submission portals when available and retain confirmations