Understanding Postmarks

What Nevada County Taxpayers Need to Know

Nevada County Treasurer-Tax Collector Michelle Bodley reminds taxpayers of the importance of understanding postmarks when mailing their property tax payments. Recent adjustments to U.S. Postal Service (USPS) transportation operations may impact postmark dates on mailed tax payments. If mailing close to the deadline, take your mailpiece to a Postal Service retail location and request a manual (local) postmark at the retail counter.

What is a Postmark?

A postmark is an official imprint applied by the U.S. Postal Service on letters, flats, and parcels. It shows:

• The name of the USPS facility that accepted the mail
• The state and ZIP code
• The date of mailing
• Postmarks are applied by machine or by hand and include cancellation marks to prevent postage reuse.
• Important: USPS only postmarks certain types of mail, depending on the postage used.

Mail That is Postmarked:

• Standard Postage Stamps – Stamps purchased and affixed to your envelope

Mail That Is NOT Postmarked:

If you use these types of postage, USPS will not apply a postmark.

• Metered Mail – Postage printed by a private or business postage meter.
• Pre-Canceled Stamps – Stamps purchased through vendors like stamps.com.
• Automated Postal Center (APC) Labels – Printed at USPS self-service kiosks.
• Permit Imprints – Used for pre-sorted mail and online bill pay services.

Why It Matters:

Property tax payments must be received or postmarked by the delinquency date to avoid penalties. If your payment arrives late without a valid postmark:

• A 10% penalty will apply
• A $10 cost may be added, if applicable

Recent USPS Rule Change:

Effective December 24, 2025, USPS implemented a final rule clarifying that machine-applied postmarks will generally reflect the date mail is first processed at a regional facility rather than the date an item is dropped off at a local post office or mailbox. Refer to the USPS Postmarking Myths and Facts for more information. 

What Does This Mean for Taxpayers?

The postmark date may occur days after you deposited mail with USPS, potentially causing property tax payments to be untimely.

Recommendation:

To ensure your payment is considered timely:

• Mail early whenever possible.
• If mailing close to the deadline, take your mailpiece to a Postal Service retail location and request a manual (local) postmark at the retail counter.
• Consider using Certified Mail or Registered Mail for proof of mailing.
• Pay Electronically or in Person using online payment options or by visiting the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office.

Annual Secured Property Tax Bill Due Dates:

• First Installment: Due November 1 | Grace period through December 10
• Second Installment: Due February 1 | Grace period through April 10

Questions? Contact the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office:

• Phone: (530) 265-1285
• In Person: 950 Maidu Avenue, Suite 290, Nevada City, CA 95959
• Email: TTC