1) USPS postmark timing: what residents should know

The Elections Administration Office is aware of recent reporting about USPS postmark timing and how it may affect voters who return ballots by mail. USPS has clarified in federal guidance that a postmark can reflect processing at a USPS facility, which may occur after an item is dropped off locally. USPS processing practices can affect when an item receives a postmark or cancellation date. In some situations, the postmark/cancellation date may reflect when a mail piece is processed at a postal processing facility, which may be later than the day it is deposited in a mailbox or first accepted locally.

Because it is not possible to control postal processing or delivery timelines, I’d like to share practical reminders so voters can take steps that are within their control—chiefly, sending time-sensitive mail as early as possible.

Practical reminders for any deadline-sensitive mail:

·         Mail early and local whenever possible. Building in extra time is the simplest way to reduce risk.

·         If timing matters, consider using a USPS retail counter instead of a collection box.

·         Pay attention to posted pickup times at collection boxes and retail units; items deposited after the last pickup may move later.

As already mentioned, the Elections Administration Office does not control USPS processing, transportation, or delivery timelines, and cannot guarantee when USPS will postmark or deliver a mailed item. Our role is to provide accurate information and encourage residents to plan ahead.

2) Voter registration certificates: statewide mailing delay

We received multiple calls from voters who expected to receive their new voter registration certificates at the end of 2025 and are concerned they have not arrived. The delay is statewide and my office is working alongside the Texas Secretary of State's to help move this mailing forward. 

If you have questions about your registration status, please contact my office. I also want to reassure voters who are waiting on a new voter registration certificate: you do not need the certificate in hand to vote. Voters can present an acceptable government-issued photo ID, and I encourage everyone to review current requirements through the Texas Secretary of State and to rely on our election office’s official communications for updates.

Important Election Dates

·         Primary Election Day: Tuesday, March 3, 2026

·         Early Voting February 17-27

·         Last day to Register to Vote – Monday, February 2nd, 2026

·         Last day to Receive Application for Ballot by Mail – Friday, February 20, 2026

·         Last day to Receive FPCA – Friday, February 20, 2026

·         Potential Primary Runoff Election Day: Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Thank you for your attention to these updates as we approach the upcoming elections. My goal is to share practical reminders to help residents reduce last-minute risk—if a deadline matters, the safest step is simple: mail local and early. We anticipate beginning ballot mailings in early February and will share confirmed dates and updates through our official website calendar.

Sincerely,

Your Elections Administrator,
Cristian Perez Garcia