The USPS rolls out new promotions every year to reward creativity, strategy, and engagement in direct mail. For 2026, several programs are returning with higher discounts, plus new opportunities are on the horizon.
At Think Patented, we’ve highlighted what you need to know so you can plan early, save thousands, and boost the impact of your mail.
Why USPS Promotions Matter
Postal rates keep rising—but promotions are here to help. These programs don’t just save money; they make your mail more engaging and effective.
By participating, you can:
- Save thousands on postage costs
- Make your mailpieces stand out with interactive and sensory features
- Optimize multi-touch campaigns for better results
Many 2026 promotions come with increased discounts, making early planning key.
NEW: Catalog Insights Promotion
Registration: August 15, 2025 | Promotion Runs: October 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
This promotion is perfect for catalog mailers. Get up to 10% off Marketing Mail catalogs with 12+ pages (including cover). Eligible formats include letters, flats, envelopes, or self-mailers—just make sure your content clearly showcases products or services with a way to purchase.
It’s the first USPS promotion to span two calendar years, giving you more flexibility. Nonprofit eligibility is being explored, and Think Patented can keep clients informed.
Tactile, Sensory & Interactive Promotion
Registration: November 15, 2025 | Promotion Runs: January 1 – June 30, 2026
This one’s for the creatives: mail that engages touch, smell, or sound qualifies for discounts. Think embossed or textured paper, scented inks, pop-ups, and zip-strip carriers.
Eligible mail classes: First-Class Mail and Marketing Mail
Discount: up to 5%
Integrated Technology Promotion
Registration: November 15, 2025 | Promotion Runs: Any consecutive six months in 2026
Bridge the gap between print and digital. Mailpieces with QR codes, AI content, or voice prompts qualify for discounts—commonly called the “mobile shopping” promotion.
Eligible mail classes: First-Class Mail and Marketing Mail
Discount: up to 5%
Continuous Contact Promotion
Registration: February 15, 2026 | Promotion Runs: April 1 – December 31, 2026
Rewarding consistency, this promotion applies to series mailings with the same theme and audience—perfect for loyalty programs, donor sequences, or subscription reminders.
First mailing: Not eligible
Subsequent mailings: Eligible if 90% of records match initial mail
Eligible class: USPS Marketing Mail
Discount: up to 5%
How Think Patented Can Help
Managing USPS promotions can be tricky—but we make it simple. We help clients:
- Identify the right promotions
- Register and manage submissions
- Ensure all mailpieces qualify
Last year, our clients saved thousands by taking advantage of these programs.
Promotions are more than discounts—they’re about making mail creative, strategic, and effective.
Ready to Plan Your 2026 Mail Campaigns?
Curious about what’s possible? Let’s talk—consultations are always free! Just fill out the form below or give us a call at 937.353.2299.