Post offices across America to close for one day in October—here’s what it means for you

If you’re planning to visit your local post office or expecting an important delivery next week, it’s worth double-checking the schedule. The United States Postal Service has announced a brief nationwide closure on October 13. During this time, both retail services and mail delivery will be temporarily paused.

For seniors who rely on USPS for prescription deliveries, bill payments, or important correspondence, this brief pause could require some advance planning

The holiday behind the closure—recognized federally as Columbus Day and in many areas as Indigenous Peoples’ Day—is one of ten official observances marked by the postal service each year.

Understanding the Columbus Day Closure

Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday of October, is a federal holiday that has been recognized by USPS since its establishment.

The 2025 closure follows the postal service's standard holiday schedule, which has remained consistent for decades.

The closure is not related to any government shutdown but is part of USPS's regular holiday observance schedule.

This distinction is important, as government shutdowns typically don't affect postal operations, which are self-funded through postage and services rather than tax dollars.

Also read: Holiday tradition returns as USPS reopens Santa’s mailbox

Impact on Mail Services and Delivery

During the Columbus Day closure, several postal services will be temporarily suspended.

Understanding these service interruptions helps seniors plan accordingly for their postal needs.

For those expecting prescription medications by mail, it's crucial to plan ahead.

Mail-order pharmacies typically account for federal holidays in their delivery schedules.

However, seniors should verify their medication arrival dates and request early refills if necessary.

Alternative Services During the Holiday

While physical post offices will be closed, some postal services remain accessible through alternative channels.

Self-service kiosks at select locations may remain operational, allowing customers to purchase stamps, mail packages with prepaid postage, and access P.O. Boxes at locations with 24-hour lobby access.

However, availability varies by location, and seniors should verify access before making the trip.

The USPS website continues to operate during holidays, offering services such as:

• Purchasing and printing postage online
• Scheduling package pickups for the next business day
• Tracking packages and mail
• Holding mail for later delivery
• Changing delivery addresses

Also read: USPS leadership change draws attention amid questions about future service

Banking Services on Columbus Day

In addition to postal closures, many financial institutions observe Columbus Day, which can affect seniors' banking activities.

Notable exceptions include TD Bank, which typically remains open on Columbus Day, providing an option for those needing in-person banking services.

Credit unions may have varying schedules, so members should check with their specific institution.

Planning Ahead for Seniors

For older adults who rely heavily on postal services, advance preparation can minimize disruptions caused by the holiday closure.

Prescription medication management requires special attention. Seniors should:

• Check medication supplies at least one week before the holiday
• Contact mail-order pharmacies about delivery schedules
• Consider using local pharmacies for urgent refills
• Ask about 90-day supplies to reduce delivery frequency

For bill payments, the holiday closure may affect payment processing times. To avoid late fees:

• Mail payments at least three business days before Columbus Day
• Consider setting up automatic payments or online bill pay
• Use drop boxes before the final collection on October 10
• Keep records of mailed payments and tracking numbers

Also read: USPS is rolling out major updates and customers are being urged to prepare

Indigenous Peoples' Day Recognition

While USPS observes the federal holiday as Columbus Day, many states and localities have renamed or additionally recognized October 13 as Indigenous Peoples' Day.

This shift reflects changing perspectives on American history and honors Native American communities.

States officially recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day include:

• Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, New Mexico, Oregon
• Vermont, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin
• North Carolina, Virginia, and others

Regardless of the holiday's local designation, USPS closures remain consistent nationwide as they follow federal holiday guidelines.

Emergency Mail Situations

For urgent postal needs during the Columbus Day closure, seniors have limited but important options.

For truly urgent situations, such as overnight document delivery, private carriers remain the most reliable option during federal holidays.

However, these services come at premium prices compared to standard USPS rates.

Also read:Think twice before opening that package—USPS flags major privacy risk

USPS Holiday Schedule for 2025

Understanding the complete USPS holiday schedule helps seniors plan throughout the year. In addition to Columbus Day, USPS observes:

Tips for Efficient Postal Service Use

To maximize postal service efficiency around holidays, seniors can adopt several strategies:

1. Digital services reduce dependence on physical post office visits.

2. USPS offers mobile apps that provide most services available at retail locations.

3. The USPS Mobile app allows users to track packages, buy stamps, schedule pickups, and find nearby post offices with their hours of operation.

4. Informed Delivery provides email notifications with scanned images of incoming mail pieces, helping seniors track important documents without visiting their mailbox daily. This free service is especially valuable for those with mobility challenges.

Community Resources and Support

Many communities offer support services that can help seniors manage postal service interruptions:

• Senior centers often coordinate mail collection assistance programs
• Local volunteer organizations may offer errand services including post office runs
• Some assisted living communities provide mail services for residents
• Area Agencies on Aging can connect seniors with transportation to postal facilities

Building relationships with neighbors can also create informal support networks for mail collection and urgent postal needs during holidays.

Read next:

• Post office changes ahead as USPS confirms multiple branch closures
• USPS just revealed major post office upgrades—here’s what to expect
• How the 2025 USPS rate hikes could impact your shipping costs

Key Takeaways

• All USPS retail locations and mail delivery services will be closed nationwide on Monday, October 13, 2025, in observance of Columbus Day.
• The postal holiday is a planned federal closure—not related to any government shutdown—and operations will resume the following day.
• Seniors who rely on USPS for prescriptions, bills, or important documents should plan ahead by checking delivery schedules and considering digital services like Informed Delivery.
• While post offices close, essential online tools, self-service kiosks, and private carriers remain available for select shipping and tracking needs.

Have you experienced delays due to postal holidays before? How do you plan ahead when the post office closes for a federal holiday? Do you use USPS digital tools like Informed Delivery or the mobile app to stay on track with your mail and packages?

We’d love to hear from you—put a comment below and share your best tips for managing around mail service interruptions!