CHARLOTTE, N.C. — For months, many people in Charlotte and nationwide have been complaining about massive mail delays.
The problem was noticeable during the holiday season, and was a major talking point during the 2020 election as millions of Americans used mail-in ballots to cast their vote. These post office delays have continued several weeks into the new year, frustrating people who rely on mail being delivered on time.
“They’ll show it delivered and then they won’t actually be there," Dilworth resident Erik Enwall said. "Or maybe they’ll show up a day or two later, or not show up at all."
Enwall and his wife have dealt with mix-ups like receiving their neighbors’ mail, as well as issues with missing packages.
“Two different packages from two different online orders that just disappeared and never [have] been delivered,” Jennifer Enwall said.
On Twitter, #USPSDelays has started trending with many sharing their mail delivery struggles and frustrations. One of the biggest concerns is those still waiting on stimulus checks or dealing with payment issues regarding bills that haven’t been successfully delivered.
With tax season approaching, experts recommending filing your 2020 returns online instead of by mail to avoid any further delays.
The United States Postal Service shared this statement with WCNC Charlotte’s sister station, NBC Washington, explaining the potential reason behind the mail delays saying in part:
"The Postal Service and all shippers experienced recent delays related to historic volumes of holiday mail while facing unprecedented challenges presented by the pandemic. Our service standards have been returning to normal in most areas and appreciate customers’ patience."
Upon reaching out over whether ballots in the 2020 election may have been delayed by the USPS, The North Carolina State Board of Elections confirmed to WCNC they have heard no reports of delayed ballots.