Debunking the Myth: Does USPS Waste Taxpayer Dollars?

When people say to you the Postal Service wastes taxpayer dollars, here’s what you can say to them.

“Bunk.”

Here’s the truth. In 1971, Congress reorganized the Postal Service, making it an independent agency of the executive branch operating as a commercial entity. Today, USPS relies on the sale of postage, mail products and services for its revenue.

A small annual appropriation from Congress reimburses USPS for free mail for the blind and absentee-ballot mailing for overseas military personnel. Otherwise, the Postal Service has not received taxpayer funds to support its operations since 1982. In fact, though the Postal Service often is described as “quasi-governmental,” it’s required by law to cover its costs.

Don’t let myths about the Postal Service cloud the truth.
“Misconceptions about the future of the Postal Service abound,” says PMG Jack Potter. “Dispelling these myths will show we can continue to deliver the mail.”