On June 5, 2002, GSA published a new mail management regulation (41 CFR 102-192). The two most significant changes from the rule that it replaced are (1) enhancement of the mail center security requirements, and (2) a new requirement to change the way federal agencies pay for mail. Specifically, the rule requires federal agencies to move away from the Postal Service's Official Mail Accounting System and move to commercial payment processes for postage. The original deadline for this change was October 1, 2003; the deadline was later extended to December 31, 2003.

Many federal agencies have found that even the extended deadline is impossible to meet. Guidance is provided in this part of the website on converting to commercial payment processes as well as guidance for requesting a deviation from the deadline. Please feel free to contact the GSA Mail Policy Team for further guidance and assistance.