Artificial Intelligence and Integrated Technology Promotion Increases to 5% in 2026

This post was edited and updated on November 18, 2025.

How to take advantage of the recent AI-driven tools with USPS^®.

AI-driven tools such as predictive analytics, variable-data optimization and print-to-digital linkages are no longer “nice-to-have,” they’re being showcased by the USPS® as part of the next wave of postal optimization. It underscores USPS®’s increasing emphasis on technology integration within mailing-promotions, operations and the broader print/mail ecosystem. 

This year’s USPS® promotions are embracing AI as part of its efforts to get mailers to use innovative technology, incorporating it into the 2026 Integrated Technology (IT) promotion. Through this promotion, the USPS® offers a 5% discount on approved mailpieces that leverage AI to enhance design and engagement. Ideally, these AI-powered pieces simplify the creative process, efficiently creating compelling copy and eye-catching visuals. 

How to Qualify?  

To qualify, all you need to do is use AI tools such as Adobe Firefly, Google Gemini, ChatGPT, or any other AI resource, to create your mailpiece. According to the USPS guidelines, this can include any AI tool that generates copy and/or images, for you to be considered for the 5% discount.

4 Options for Creating Your Envelope or Mailpiece 

There are two options for qualifying for this year’s promotions. 

• Option 1: Generate mailpiece with AI copy
  • Use AI to generate copy for things such as the call to action, directional copy, or supporting text, with the minimum being one complete sentence. 
    
• Option 2: Generate the mailpiece images using AI tools
  • Create one or more images, with AI, that are clearly related to the mailpiece 
    
•  Option 3: Generate a design and/or formatting for a mailpiece
  • Can include rearranging bodies of text, titles, images, etc. 
  • Design and/or formatting must be clearly present on mailpiece
    
• Option 4: Launch an AI Chatbot
  • Mailpiece must direct recipient to scan a technology trigger, such as a QR code, to interact with an AI-powered chatbot for a clear outcome, such as getting additional information about a product 
  • Technology trigger must be accompanied by directional copy 

Pre-Approval Submission Requirements 

Like all mailpieces that are being considered for the USPS® promotions, mailers must submit them through the proper channels and have them pre-approved. Here are the options to qualify for the promotion:

1. A digital file, such as a PDF, containing prompt and the AI tool’s output (non-applicable for Option 4) 
   • Prompt must be visible alongside output in an unedited file 
   • Optional: Include link to prompt and output
2. A short description of how tool was used (non-applicable for Option 4)
   • If incorporated copy or image does not entirely match AI-generated output, explain what changes were made to the output and why 
3. Mailpiece imagery, copy, or design/formatting entirely matches the AI tool’s output, unless edits are explained (non-applicable for Option 4) 
4. Option 4 Only: A digital file, such as a PDF, containing proof that the AI Chatbot is AI-powered 
   • A screenshot of the AI Chatbot experience that is triggered by the technology trigger on the mailpiece 
   • Brief description of the models or platforms behind the AI Chatbot (e.g., “Built using Microsoft Copilot technology, leveraging large language models…”)

Integrated Technology Promotion

Registration Date: November 15, 2025 – December 31, 2026

Promotion Date: 6 consecutive months, pick your start date

Eligible Technologies: Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality, Virtual Reality, Integration with Voice Assistant, Video in Print Technology, Near Field Communication, Mobile Shopping, Artificial Intelligence

View our USPS® Promotions & Incentives page here to learn more about this promotion.

More details on the AI elements of the IT promotion, including examples of AI prompts, can be found on page 19 of the IT Guidebook from the USPS®. Mailpieces that use unexplained, edited AI-generated output will not be approved. Nor will AI prompts that instruct AI to generate specific copy, such as an AI prompt that says, “Use this exact wording: ‘Take me to my website.’” 

Have more questions?

This USPS® promotion offers mailers a unique opportunity to embrace AI in a productive, meaningful way. Tension is here to help you navigate these exciting advancements in AI implementation. For questions or assistance with any of the USPS® promotions, contact us today.