Mailing Permits and Indicias Explained

Getting Started

A postal permit allows businesses to send mail without using traditional postage stamps. Instead, they use a printed marking called an indicia, which appears in the upper right corner of the envelope where a stamp would normally go.

In This Article

What Is an Indicia?

An indicia is a printed marking that replaces a stamp and typically looks something like this:

You can often spot indicia on bulk or business mail you receive. It indicates that the postage has been paid under a company’s mailing permit.

How It Differs from Stamps and Meters

  • Stamps
    • Must be canceled by USPS.
    • Are overprinted with a cancellation mark and date.
  • Postage Meters
    • Print the postage directly onto the envelope.
    • Usually include a mailing date as part of the meter imprint.
  • Indicia (Postal Permit)
    • Displays no stamp or meter value.
    • Does not include a date on the mailpiece.

Why There’s No Date on Indicia Mail

Mail sent with an indicia is not date-stamped:

  • This is because the mail is accepted under a permit and processed in bulk.
  • USPS does not apply a postmark or cancelation date to indicia mail like they do with stamps or meter postage.