President Joe Biden has declared Thursday a National Day of Mourning in honor of former president Jimmy Carter.
Carter died at the age of 100 in his home in Georgia, making him the longest living president.
The National Day of Mourning affects many government services, as all federal offices will pause operations until Friday, January 9. Mail is one of the services that will be impacted.
Why It Matters
Americans rely on the United States Postal Service to bring them mail rain or shine.
However, on days deemed federal holidays, like the National Day of Mourning, mail services will be suspended to give employees the day off.
What To Know
Since Thursday is the National Day of Mourning in remembrance of Carter, all federal offices will be closed for the day.
That includes the United States Postal Service, which will not deliver any mail throughout the day.
All post offices will be closed, with regular mail suspended, according to the United States Postal Service. However, there will be "limited package delivery service."
Carter's funeral will be held at the Washington National Cathedral before his body is brought back to have a home burial in Georgia.
The 39th president served one term before his defeat by former President Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election. Carter was the longest-living president in U.S. history, and his marriage to Rosalynn Carter lasted 77 years, the longest marriage in presidential history.
USPS, UPS, FedEx Deliveries
While USPS mail and deliveries will be delayed, UPS and FedEx pickup and delivery services will continue as usual.
Generally, UPS and FedEx office locations remain open as well. Business hours vary by location.
What People Are Saying
The USPS said on its website: "In observance of the national day of mourning for former President Jimmy Carter, the Postal Service will suspend regular mail delivery and retail service on Thursday, January 9, 2025. USPS will provide limited package delivery service on that day."
On the day Carter died, President Biden said: "I call on the American people to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship, there to pay homage to the memory of President James Earl Carter Jr."
Chip Carter, the former president's son, said in a statement released by The Carter Center: "My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love. My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs."
President-elect Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social: "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers."
What Happens Next
In addition to the post office, all other federal offices will shut their doors on Thursday.
The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq likewise are closing U.S. markets. State offices, schools and banks will remain open up to their discretion.
Follow our Jimmy Carter funeral live blog to stay up-to-date with the latest developments, heartfelt tributes and key moments as we honor the life and legacy of the former president's journey.
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