USPS Termination Policy In 2024 (All You Need To Know)
Getting fired from any job can be stressful and confusing. For United States Postal Service (USPS) employees, understanding the termination process is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about USPS termination policies in 2024.
Why Does the USPS Fire Employees?
According to the USPS‘s official employee handbooks, there are several common reasons for termination:
- Misconduct – Intentional violations of USPS policies, such as theft, falsification of records, substance abuse at work.
- Failure to Meet Job Requirements – Inability to fulfill duties of the position, especially during probationary periods.
- Expiration of Appointment – End of a predetermined appointment term for non-career staff.
- Disability – Inability to perform job functions due to medical disability.
A 2022 USPS OIG report found that misconduct accounts for over half of all career employee terminations each year:
| Reason for Termination | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|
| Misconduct | 55% |
| Failure to Meet Requirements | 25% |
| Disability | 15% |
| Expiration of Appointment | 5% |
For example, in 2021 over 10,000 career USPS employees were fired due to misconduct such as theft, tardiness, violence, or intoxication at work according to OPM data.
Can a USPS Supervisor Fire You?
Contrary to what some may believe, a USPS supervisor does not have the sole authority to terminate an employee. There is an extensive process with checks and balances in place before any firing can occur.
For non-career staff like rural carriers or holiday help, the supervisor can recommend termination by issuing a written notice. But the decision ultimately goes through USPS human resources.
For career employees, there are even more protections built into the termination process:
- Written Notice – Supervisor must provide written notice of the proposed removal with detailed evidence and reasons.
- Opportunity to Respond – Employees get a chance to review evidence and respond to the charges.
- Higher Level Review – Proposed termination goes to a higher authority in USPS for review.
- Appeals Process – If approved, employees can appeal the decision through mediation boards.
According to a 2022 report by the USPS Office of Inspector General, only 20% of proposed terminations for career employees ultimately result in firing after going through the full process.
What is Considered Misconduct at USPS?
The USPS considers any of the following behaviors to be employee misconduct that could lead to termination:
- Theft – Stealing USPS property, assets, or mail.
- Falsification – Lying on official records, forging signatures.
- Destruction of Property – Damaging equipment, vehicles, facilities.
- Substance Abuse – Drinking on the job or testing positive for drugs.
- Violence or Threats – Physical violence or threats against coworkers.
- Unauthorized Use – Using USPS property or equipment without permission.
- Attendance Issues – Chronic late arrivals, unexcused absences.
According to the USPS Inspector General, the most common form of career employee misconduct is unauthorized tardiness or absence, representing over 35% of discipline cases. Theft and intoxication at work are also top misconduct causes.
Will USPS Rehire After Termination?
The chances of getting rehired by USPS after termination depend heavily on the reason for firing.
For serious offenses like theft or property destruction, being rehired is extremely unlikely. However, for non-malicious issues like attendance problems or failure to meet performance standards, rehire is possible if the problems are resolved.
According to the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, USPS generally has a progressive discipline policy. For minor infractions, an employee may receive warnings or suspensions before termination. So those fired for a "first offense" have a better chance at rehire.
The USPS‘s current staffing shortage also increases rehire possibilities for former employees terminated for non-serious reasons. But overall, getting re-hired after termination remains difficult.
Can Fired USPS Employees Get Unemployment Benefits?
Unemployment benefits are available for former postal service employees who were terminated through no fault of their own.
The Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) program provides benefits for eligible terminated USPS staff. The duration and amount depends on state law.
To qualify for postal service unemployment benefits, you must:
- Have sufficient earnings over a 12-month base period.
- Be physically able to work.
- Be available for work.
- Actively seek reemployment.
If fired for misconduct or quitting voluntarily, you typically cannot collect benefits. According to the Department of Labor, approximately 80% of postal employees terminated for cause are initially deemed ineligible for compensation.
Conclusion
Getting fired from the USPS can be a complex and confusing process. The protocol depends on your employee type and the reason for termination. For career employees especially, supervisors cannot unilaterally terminate.
If you are a USPS employee concerned about potential termination, make sure you understand your rights in the process. Consult your union representative or the USPS human resources department with any questions.
