Will USPS Deliver on Presidents’ Day? A Definitive Guide

No, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will not deliver mail on Presidents’ Day. It is a federal holiday, and like other federal holidays, most USPS services are suspended. This includes mail delivery and retail window service.

Understanding USPS Operations on Presidents’ Day

Presidents’ Day, officially known as Washington’s Birthday, is observed on the third Monday of February. It’s a day to honor all U.S. presidents, past and present. While many businesses remain open, federal entities like the USPS take a day off. This shutdown impacts everything from your daily mail delivery to accessing services at your local post office. Let’s dive deeper into what this means for you.

No Regular Mail Delivery

Perhaps the most noticeable impact of Presidents’ Day on USPS operations is the absence of regular mail delivery. This means:

• No letters: You won’t receive your standard letters, bills, or personal correspondence.
• No packages: Expect a delay in receiving packages shipped via USPS. Services like Priority Mail, First-Class Package Service, and USPS Retail Ground will not be delivered.
• No marketing mail: Junk mail, circulars, and promotional materials will also be held until the next business day.

Essentially, if it’s being delivered by a USPS carrier, it’s highly unlikely to arrive on Presidents’ Day.

Limited Post Office Services

Your local post office will be closed on Presidents’ Day. This means:

• No retail transactions: You can’t buy stamps, ship packages, or handle any other transactions at the counter.
• No PO Box access: While some post offices offer 24/7 access to PO Boxes, this may vary. Check with your local post office to confirm availability.
• No passport services: Passport application processing is also suspended.

However, certain services might be available, though severely limited.

Exceptions to the Rule: Priority Mail Express

There is one crucial exception to the “no delivery” rule: Priority Mail Express. This premium service is typically delivered 365 days a year, including holidays. However, even with Priority Mail Express, it’s advisable to check with your local post office or the USPS website to confirm that delivery is available in your area, as some exceptions may apply due to unforeseen circumstances or limited staffing.

Planning Ahead to Avoid Disruptions

The key to navigating USPS closures on Presidents’ Day is to plan ahead. Consider these tips:

• Mail early: If you need to send something urgently, mail it a few days before the holiday to ensure timely delivery.
• Check tracking information: Keep an eye on your package tracking information for updates and potential delays.
• Use alternative shipping options: If you absolutely need something delivered on Presidents’ Day, explore alternatives like FedEx or UPS, which may have different holiday schedules.
• Manage your subscriptions: If you have subscriptions that typically arrive around Presidents’ Day, be prepared for a potential delay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About USPS and Presidents’ Day

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions that can provide more clarity regarding USPS operations during the Presidents’ Day holiday.

1. Will USPS deliver packages the day after Presidents’ Day?

Yes, USPS will resume regular mail delivery the day after Presidents’ Day. Expect a higher volume of mail and packages than usual, as items accumulated over the holiday will be processed and delivered.

2. What happens if I have a package scheduled for delivery on Presidents’ Day?

Your package will be held at the local post office or distribution center and delivered on the next business day (Tuesday, in most cases). Check the tracking information for updates.

3. Can I still drop off mail at a blue collection box on Presidents’ Day?

Yes, you can drop off mail at a blue collection box. However, keep in mind that the mail will not be collected until the next business day.

4. Is USPS customer service available on Presidents’ Day?

No, USPS customer service is generally limited on Presidents’ Day. You may be able to access some automated services online, but live customer service representatives will likely be unavailable.

5. Are there any exceptions to the post office closure on Presidents’ Day?

While rare, some postal facilities located within retail stores or airports might remain open with limited services. Call ahead to confirm their hours and available services.

6. Will my newspaper be delivered on Presidents’ Day?

It depends on how your newspaper is delivered. If it’s delivered by a USPS carrier, it will likely be delayed until the next business day. If it’s delivered by a private carrier, it may still arrive on Presidents’ Day.

7. How do I find out if my local post office has 24/7 PO Box access?

The best way to confirm PO Box access is to contact your local post office directly. You can find their contact information on the USPS website.

8. What if I’m expecting a government check on Presidents’ Day?

If you’re expecting a government check, like Social Security or a tax refund, and it’s being delivered by USPS, anticipate a delay. The check should arrive on the next business day.

9. Can I use the USPS website to track packages on Presidents’ Day?

Yes, you can use the USPS website or mobile app to track packages on Presidents’ Day. Tracking information will be updated as packages move through the system. However, expect limited movement of packages on the actual holiday.

10. Are FedEx and UPS closed on Presidents’ Day?

No, FedEx and UPS typically offer limited services on Presidents’ Day. While some services may be suspended, they usually offer deliveries for expedited or time-critical shipments. Check their websites for specific holiday schedules and service availability.

11. Does Presidents’ Day affect international mail delivery?

Yes, Presidents’ Day can affect international mail delivery. Incoming and outgoing international mail may experience delays due to the USPS closure.

12. Where can I find the USPS holiday schedule?

You can find the official USPS holiday schedule on the USPS website (usps.com). This schedule lists all federal holidays observed by the Postal Service.

By understanding these aspects of USPS operations on Presidents’ Day, you can better plan your mailings and avoid any unwanted surprises. While the holiday may cause a brief pause in regular mail service, the USPS quickly resumes operations the following day, ensuring that your mail and packages continue to reach their destinations. Remember to always check the USPS website for the most up-to-date information and announcements.