Big changes are underway at the United States Postal Service (USPS) this April as part of a cost-cutting and efficiency-boosting plan under the administration of President Donald Trump. These changes will impact millions of customers nationwide, with some seeing mail delivery delays, and thousands of postal jobs being cut.
The reforms aim to reduce the agency’s massive financial losses, improve delivery consistency, and reshape how the postal system operates.
What’s Changing at USPS This April?
Starting April 1, 2025, the USPS has implemented a new delivery model across the country, including:
- First-Class Mail: Service standards remain 1–5 days, but actual delivery may be faster for some, slower for others depending on location and transport updates.
- Marketing Mail & Periodicals: Shortened delivery time ranges.
- Package Services: Delivery for certain items like Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail may be slower.
- Ground Advantage and Priority Mail: Standard timeframes remain, but adjustments in routing may affect arrival dates.
Customers can use USPS tools online to check ZIP code-to-ZIP code delivery times and track changes in delivery standards.
Why These Reforms Are Happening
The USPS, which operates independently and funds itself through postage and product sales, has been losing money for years. In 2024, the agency reported a $9.5 billion loss and is expected to lose another $6.9 billion in 2025.
Electronic communication has led to an 80% drop in First-Class Mail since 1997. With fewer letters being sent and rising costs, the system needs major restructuring.
According to USPS officials, these reforms will save $36 billion over 10 years through:
- Job reductions
- New mail delivery logistics
- Streamlined operations
10,000 USPS Jobs to Be Cut
In March, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy confirmed a deal with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to cut 10,000 jobs through a voluntary early retirement program.
Eligible employees will receive a $15,000 incentive paid in two parts. The American Postal Workers Union confirmed this buyout package and urged the administration to protect remaining jobs and services.
This agreement was backed by the General Services Administration (GSA) and is part of a larger effort to modernize USPS and reduce long-term costs.
President Trump’s Push for Reform—and a Potential Merger
President Donald Trump has been critical of the Postal Service for years, calling it a “tremendous loser” and suggesting bold reforms. His administration is now openly considering a USPS merger with the Commerce Department.
In his words:
“It’ll be a form of a merger, but it’ll remain the Postal Service. I think it’ll operate a lot better than it has been over the years.”
While no executive order has been issued yet, sources told The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal that Trump has explored the idea of firing the USPS Board of Governors via executive action. The White House has denied this, but Trump confirmed that the merger is under active consideration.
However, such a move may violate federal law, and would require Congressional approval, as the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 protects USPS’s independence.
Protests Erupt Nationwide
Thousands of postal workers and supporters have taken to the streets in cities like Washington D.C., Los Angeles, and New York, protesting against job cuts and the potential dismantling of USPS’s independent status.
Brian Renfroe, President of the National Association of Letter Carriers, said:
“No one voted to dismantle the Postal Service. It’s a public trust, not a private corporation.”
Online movements with hashtags like #fightlikehell and #hellno have gained traction, rallying support for postal workers.
More Changes Coming in July 2025
Phase 2 of the USPS reform plan is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2025. Further adjustments to delivery standards, facility operations, and staffing are expected.
Details will be released closer to the date.