Federal ethics laws restrict Postal Service employees, their spouses and their dependents from accepting gifts from foreign government officials.
If the gift costs more than $480, it must be declined unless rejecting it would harm U.S. foreign relations or cause offense or embarrassment. If such a gift is accepted, it is considered property of the United States and must be turned over to the USPS Ethics Office within 60 days.
However, a gift given as a souvenir or courtesy may be accepted if it costs less than $480.
When determining the value of a foreign gift, contact the ethics office for an appraisal.
USPS employees are prohibited from requesting or encouraging a foreign government official to offer gifts or decorations such as awards, medals, badges or similar items.
Failure to adhere to these rules could result in disciplinary action and financial penalties.
Management Instruction EL-660-2020-2, Gifts and Decorations from Foreign Governments, has more information.
Employees with questions should email the ethics office.
