APWU postal workers ratify national contract

Contract includes wage increases, COLAs, no-layoff protections, and more

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 11, 2025) — American Postal Workers Union (APWU) members have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new national agreement, with 95% of voting members supporting ratification. The agreement covers more than 200,000 postal workers across the U.S., including thousands here in Washington state.

“This contract, with no givebacks or concessions, provides a strong foundation for us to build on in the years to come,” said APWU President Mark Dimondstein, announcing ratification.  “At a time when government workers are facing layoffs and attacks on their union rights, this contract will protect postal workers through the turbulent years ahead.”

The agreement covers workers from 2024 through 2027. Dimondstein, who also served as lead negotiator detailed contact wins in a statement.

“With absolutely no givebacks, the contract protects the great gains achieved over many years of struggle with the no-layoff protections, full COLA as a true buffer against inflation, regular step increases, the 50-mile limit on excessing, and the two-year automatic conversion from non-career to career. There are general wage increases for the next three years, significant advances in bridging the divisive two-tier wage structure, the first increase in night differential in 30 years, and many positive work-rule changes.”

Now that APWU members have ratified the new National Agreement, one of the first items to address in contract implementation is the retroactive pay increases due to employees, per the union. These include the first general wage increase (GWI) of 1.3% for career employees, effective November 16, 2024 and the $395 per year COLA due to career employees, effective March 8, 2025. Some workers, who do not receive COLAs, will receive an extra 1% towards their GWI, for a total of 2.3%, effective November 16, 2024.

“Every member should be very proud of this huge accomplishment,” said Dimondstein. “Our power at the bargaining table was driven by the strength of your solidarity and unity, the foundation of our union.”