Nonprofit bulk mail postage depends on the finished piece, how the mailing is sorted and where it enters the USPS network. The lower nonprofit prices apply to eligible domestic USPS Marketing Mail sent by or on behalf of an organization that USPS has authorized. For current postage, use the USPS Notice 123 price list and look for the USPS Marketing Mail Nonprofit table for your mailpiece.
How to find the current nonprofit postage rate
USPS publishes separate nonprofit prices for letters, flats (such as large envelopes) and eligible parcels. A postcard sent by USPS Marketing Mail uses the applicable letter or flat price based on its dimensions and other physical characteristics. USPS does not publish a separate Marketing Mail postcard rate.
- Start with the finished piece. Measure and weigh it with the envelope, inserts or attachments included. A different size, weight or thickness can change which price table applies.
- Check the mailing’s preparation. Prices differ by sort level and whether the pieces meet USPS requirements for automation or another price category.
- Use the entry point for the job. Some price categories depend on where the mailing is handed to USPS. Check the price list effective on your planned mailing date.
The price list covers postage. For a project budget, also account for printing and preparation, such as folding, inserting or addressing. Compare the total for each format before you approve artwork or order paper.
Who qualifies for nonprofit bulk mail rates?
USPS decides whether an organization qualifies. An IRS tax exemption can support the application, but USPS must issue its own authorization. Qualifying categories can include charitable, religious, educational and other organizations described in the USPS nonprofit mailing standards.
Start with PS Form 3624 and submit the supporting documents USPS requests. USPS explains the available submission options in its application instructions. If approval is pending, budget for regular Marketing Mail postage on otherwise eligible pieces. If approval comes through, ask USPS whether a refund of the difference is available for your mailing.
Tell your mailer the name USPS authorized and whether you already have an authorization number. The organization’s authorization and the permit used to pay postage serve different purposes. Our nonprofit mailing authorization guide walks through what to gather.
Which mailpieces can use nonprofit prices?
Fundraising appeals, newsletters and event invitations may qualify when their contents and preparation meet USPS rules. Have the piece reviewed before printing if it contains paid advertising, a promotion for a commercial partner or material that may need to go by First-Class Mail. USPS also has rules about how the authorized organization is identified on the piece. The USPS guide for nonprofit mailers explains which rules to check.
For a typical addressed mailing, plan on at least 200 pieces and confirm the requirements for your format and preparation. For outreach to every address on selected neighborhood routes, ask whether Every Door Direct Mail fits your audience and budget. Compare its pricing and eligibility with addressed nonprofit mail before you choose.
What to include when requesting a quote
- Your estimated piece count and the ZIP codes or areas you want to reach.
- The format and finished dimensions, plus any envelope or inserts. A mockup helps if you have one.
- Whether you have a mailing list and USPS nonprofit authorization. An approximate count is enough to start the conversation.
- Your target mailing date and whether you need printing, personalization, preparation or mailing.
Accurate Mailing Service can help you compare formats and plan printing and mailing preparation for your project. If you are still choosing a format, see our fundraising letter guide and direct mail fundraising examples.
