The Postal Service is reminding employees of the importance of identifying and avoiding financial conflicts of interest.
People may lose confidence in USPS if they think the organization’s employees are influenced by personal interests.
Federal criminal law prohibits government employees from participating in work-related matters in which they have a personal financial stake. This prohibition includes decisions that might financially affect a spouse or a minor child, as well as decisions that might affect an employee’s outside businesses or business partners.
For example, it would be a conflict of interest for a Postal Service employee to approve an invoice from a company if the employee owns more than $15,000 of stock in that company.
Employees who violate conflict of interest laws may face disciplinary action or criminal prosecution.
The USPS Ethics Office recommends that all Postal Service employees examine their financial investments, outside business relationships and outside employment for any potential conflicts with their duties.
Employees with questions or concerns should email the Ethics Office or call 202-268-6346. They can also download the USPS ethics app.
