By Box Butte County Assessor's Office
BOX BUTTE COUNTY, Neb. – Box Butte County Assessor’s Office is alerting residents and businesses that they should plan ahead when submitting time-sensitive mail following a recent clarification by the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding postmarking practices.
Under the updated guidance, USPS cannot guarantee that the date it takes possession of a mail piece will be the date reflected in the postmark. Residents are encouraged to take extra precautions when mailing documents that rely on a postmark to meet statutory or regulatory deadlines. This includes: personal property returns, homestead exemption applications, permissive exemption applications, mobile home court reports and valuation protest forms to the County Clerk.
Additionally, recent USPS transportation changes may affect how mail moves from local post offices to processing centers. This could further delay when the mail is postmarked.
To help avoid late filings or delinquent payments, county officials recommend that residents and businesses take the following steps when submitting time-sensitive mail:
-Use electronic or online services whenever available to ensure timely submission.
-Mail items early, allowing additional time ahead of deadlines.
-Request a manual (local) postmark at the post office when mailing time-sensitive documents. This service is free and ensures the postmark reflects the date USPS takes possession of the mail piece.
-Consider optional mailing services such as Certified Mail, Registered Mail, or a Certificate of Mailing for added documentation and assurance.
Residents with questions about filing deadlines or available electronic services are encouraged to contact the office at (308) 762-6100 or stop by 515 Box Butte Ave, Suite 102.