Non-Profit Mailing Guide
Everything your 501(c)(3) needs to know about discounted USPS non-profit postage rates and the PS Form 3624 application.
Save 40–60% on Postage with Non-Profit Rates
If your organization has 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, you may qualify for dramatically reduced USPS postage rates. Non-profit Marketing Mail rates are among the lowest postage rates available — often saving organizations thousands of dollars per year on fundraising appeals, newsletters, event invitations, and direct mail campaigns.
Cornerstone has helped dozens of non-profit organizations across the Hudson Valley apply for and maintain their USPS non-profit mailing authorization. We guide you through the PS Form 3624 application, handle all presort processing, and ensure every mailing meets USPS requirements for non-profit pricing.
Non-Profit vs. Commercial Rate Comparison
| Mail Type | Commercial Rate* | Non-Profit Rate* | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marketing Mail Letter (5-digit auto) | $0.247 | $0.146 | 41% |
| Marketing Mail Flat (5-digit auto) | $0.558 | $0.285 | 49% |
| Marketing Mail Letter (AADC auto) | $0.296 | $0.174 | 41% |
| Marketing Mail Letter (Mixed AADC) | $0.347 | $0.207 | 40% |
*Rates approximate as of 2025. Actual rates depend on presort level, weight, and volume. Contact us for current pricing.
Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route
Qualifying non-profits can also access the Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route rate — a saturation mail category similar to EDDM that delivers to every address on selected carrier routes. This rate is even lower than the 5-digit automation rate shown above and is ideal for community outreach, local fundraising, and event promotion across a defined geographic area. Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route mail is processed through the USPS Business Mail Entry Unit and requires your organization's non-profit authorization and a mailing permit.
Real Savings Example
A non-profit sending 5,000 fundraising letters per quarter (20,000 annually) at 5-digit automation rates saves approximately $2,020 per year compared to commercial rates. Over five years, that's more than $10,000 back in your budget for programs and services.
Who Qualifies for Non-Profit Rates?
USPS non-profit mailing authorization is available to organizations that meet specific criteria established by the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM). Eligible organization types include:
The Primary Purpose Requirement
USPS authorization for Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail is granted based on an organization's primary purpose — not simply its tax-exempt status. Qualified Nonprofit Organizations must demonstrate that their primary activities directly serve the charitable, religious, educational, scientific, or veterans' purposes that establish eligibility under the Domestic Mail Manual. A 501(c)(3) that primarily sells goods or provides commercial services may not qualify for nonprofit mailing authorization even with a valid IRS determination letter. Organization Eligibility is reviewed at the time of application and can be re-evaluated if your mission changes.
PS Form 3624: The Application
PS Form 3624 (Application to Mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail Prices) is the official USPS form your organization must complete to receive non-profit mailing authorization. The application is submitted to your local USPS Postmaster along with supporting documentation.
Required Documentation
Your PS Form 3624 application must include: your IRS determination letter (for 501(c)(3) status), articles of incorporation or charter, a description of your organization's activities and purposes, financial statements showing sources of income, and a sample of the type of mail you intend to send at non-profit rates.
Processing Timeline
USPS typically processes PS Form 3624 applications within 30–60 days. During this period, USPS reviews your documentation, may request additional information, and issues a written authorization if approved. Cornerstone can prepare and review your application before submission to minimize delays.
Content Restrictions
Not all mail qualifies for non-profit rates. The content must further your organization's stated purpose. Items that don't qualify include: cooperative mailings with for-profit entities, mailings primarily designed to sell goods/services, and travel advertising (even for non-profit tours). Cornerstone helps ensure your mail content meets USPS non-profit content standards.
How Cornerstone Helps Non-Profits
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PS Form 3624?
How much can our non-profit save on postage?
Do we need our own mailing permit?
Can we send fundraising appeals at non-profit rates?
Eligibility criteria and rate information sourced from USPS Domestic Mail Manual Part 700 Special Standards, available on Postal Explorer. Requirements are subject to change; contact us for current eligibility guidance.
Ready to Apply for Non-Profit Rates?
Contact us for a free consultation. We'll review your organization's eligibility, estimate your postage savings, and guide you through the PS Form 3624 application process.
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