A form of indication on an envelope that the costs for sending were paid in another way than using stamps or a franking machine. The indication is usually placed in the upper right corner of the front side of an envelope, where otherwise stamps would have been stuck.
What does postage paid mean?
The term Postage Paid refers to mail for which the required postage has already been paid by the sender, permit holder, or authorized agency so the recipient normally does not add a stamp. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
Does a postage-paid election envelope need a stamp?
Usually not, if the election envelope is genuinely postage paid under the return-mail method printed on it. The election office or permit holder covers the postage, so the voter normally does not add a stamp. Voters should still follow the envelope instructions because return-mail arrangements and postal requirements can differ among jurisdictions.
How can voters tell whether return postage is prepaid?
Voters can check the return envelope for wording such as 'postage paid,' 'business reply mail,' a permit imprint, or instructions saying no stamp is necessary. If the envelope does not clearly state that postage is covered, the safest source is the issuing election office's instructions. Requirements can differ by jurisdiction and mailing method.
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A form of indication on an envelope that the costs for sending were paid in another way than using stamps or a franking machine. The indication is usually placed in the upper right corner of the front side of an envelope, where otherwise stamps would have been stuck.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Postage Paid. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/postage-paid
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