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261.22

Office Time -- Preparation

Handbook M-41, TL-4, 03-01-98
Updated With Postal Bulletin Revisions Through April 5, 2001

• 26 Accountable Items
   
• 261 Accountability Procedures
   
• 261.1 Acquiring Accountable Items
  
   
• 261.11 Accountable items are keys, postage due, customs duty, and special services mail.
• 261.12 Generally, carriers are required to call at the finance cage for accountable items. They may be called in groups by call of route numbers or by passing a paddle (see glossary for paddle system). At some offices, the items are delivered to the carrier at his/her case.
   
• 261.2 Receipting for Accountable Items
   
• 261.21 Keys A numbered check is issued to each employee. When you surrender the check, you will be given a set of Arrow and/or padlock, and/or truck keys. (In some instances, a signature is used in place of a numbered check.) The keys are on a chain which must be securely fastened to a belt or clothing. Keys must be returned at the end of the tour of duty. The two most common type of keys are pictured below:
   

• 261.22 Postage Due (Exhibit 261.22) All postal employees are expected to protect postal revenue. All postage-due items found in the mail should be brought to the finance window for postage accounting. Count the amount of postage due represented by the postage-due stamps or meter strips on the envelope or on Form 3582-A. Give the finance clerk cash or sign Form 3584 for the amount due.