USPS nonprofit mailing prices are not automatic. Authorization and the details of each mailing—including content, mailpiece, weight, preparation, and entry—determine the postal options that may be available. This guide helps nonprofits prepare the questions and documentation needed for a current mailing quote.
Quick Answer
USPS determines whether an organization and a specific mailing can use Nonprofit Marketing Mail prices. Form 3624 is part of the authorization process, but authorization alone does not determine the price or class for every mailing. Review the mailing specifications and current USPS requirements before quoting or preparing postage.
Postal Planning Factors
Matched July 2026 USPS Notice 123 Reference
This is one matched base-rate illustration for the named conditions, not a current quote for every nonprofit mailing.
| Scenario | Base Postage Per Piece | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard USPS Marketing Mail | $0.395 | commercial letter, 3.5 ounces or less, None entry, automation 5-Digit, before eligible adjustments |
| USPS Nonprofit Marketing Mail | $0.185 | Same matched conditions, with USPS authorization and all applicable requirements |
Rate example: $0.185 nonprofit and $0.395 standard USPS Marketing Mail apply to a commercial letter, 3.5 ounces or less, None entry, automation 5-Digit, before eligible adjustments. USPS nonprofit prices require USPS authorization; Full-Service and Seamless Acceptance adjustments apply only when eligible. USPS Notice 123 figures effective July 12, 2026. USPS announced a time-limited price change beginning October 4, 2026; confirm the then-effective USPS price list and whether the specific product is affected before quoting or presenting a rate as current. View USPS Notice 123 and current price-change information.
This July 2026 reference is not a current quote. USPS announced a time-limited price change beginning October 4, 2026. Consult USPS Notice 123 and request a quote using the actual mailing specifications.
Preparing for USPS Nonprofit Authorization
USPS reviews nonprofit authorization and mailing eligibility under its own requirements. These steps help organize a discussion with USPS or a mail-preparation provider; they do not guarantee eligibility or a particular rate.
Review USPS eligibility guidance
Confirm the organization category and purpose against current USPS guidance. USPS makes the authorization determination.
Prepare Form 3624 and support materials
Use the current USPS Form 3624 instructions and assemble the documentation USPS requests for the organization and the proposed mail.
Submit through the appropriate USPS channel
Submit the application and materials as USPS directs, then retain USPS’s authorization information for future mailing review.
Review each mailing before entry
Confirm content, class, mailpiece specifications, preparation, entry, and documentation for the individual mailing.
Coordinate production and postal preparation
A mail house can help prepare files, documentation, and postal paperwork based on the approved mailing plan.
Mailing-Preparation Considerations
Presort and Entry
USPS sort level, entry point, and preparation requirements determine the applicable postage treatment for a mailing.
Address Quality
NCOA, CASS, and related processing should be selected based on the list, the mailing plan, and applicable USPS requirements.
Commingling and Co-Mailing
Ask whether a commingling or co-mailing option fits the specifications and postal preparation for the proposed mailing.
Periodicals and Other Classes
Publications and other mail types may have separate USPS standards. Review the applicable class rather than assuming a nonprofit Marketing Mail option.
Mailpiece Design
Size, weight, enclosures, and address placement should be reviewed before production because they affect USPS eligibility and preparation.
Full-Service Requirements
Full-Service eligibility and any related adjustments depend on USPS requirements for the individual mailing.
Mail-class note: Standalone invoices, statements, bills, municipal tax bills, and utility bills use First-Class Mail and are not eligible for Marketing Mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Nonprofit Mailing
Share the organization’s authorization status, mailpiece, audience, timing, and production specifications so the postal questions can be reviewed for the specific mailing.