Pony Up Act

This bill, called the Pony Up Act, makes the U.S. Postal Service pay citizens back for late fees or penalties when a bill, notice, or payment arrives late because of USPS. “Late” means, for example, USPS got a bill or notice at least 12 days before it was due but delivered it less than 6 days before the due date, or USPS got your payment at least 5 days before it was due but delivered it after the due date. USPS does not have to pay if the delay was outside its control, like a major disaster declared by the President.

Citizens can apply for reimbursement online, by mail, or at any post office. If USPS denies a claim, you can appeal in writing within 30 days to the USPS Judicial Officer, whose decision is final. USPS must issue rules to carry this out within 60 days and provide yearly reports on mail delays; the USPS Inspector General must also review whether USPS favors certain mail types over others in delivery speed.

• Who is affected: Citizens charged late fees because their bill, notice, or payment was delayed in the mail.
• What changes: USPS reimburses those late fees in full; simple ways to apply; an appeal option; limits when delays are beyond USPS control.
• When: USPS must set rules within 60 days; annual reporting starts one year after the law takes effect.