The primary difference between the April 2023 version and the June 2024 revision of USPS Form 1583 largely revolves around the implementation and clarification of new regulations aimed at enhancing security and streamlining the process, particularly with the introduction of the CMRA Customer Registration Database (CRD).


Here's a breakdown of the key changes:


April 2023 Version:


  • New Form Requirement: As of July 1, 2023, all new clients of CMRAs were required to use this updated PS Form 1583 instead of the outdated version.
  • Layout Changes: The April 2023 version included a layout change, along with the addition of the USPS logo and form name, checkbox options for IDs, and a general reordering of questions.

  • Emphasis on CRD: This version was released in anticipation of the CMRA Customer Registration Database (CRD), as the Postal Service aimed to improve the collection and management of information from the form using this electronic database, moving away from reliance on paper records.
  • CMRA Responsibilities: CMRAs became responsible for ensuring their clients' documentation and IDs were kept up to date and would need to upload this data to the CRD.
  • Notarization: The form still required notarization to verify the applicant's identity, especially if submitted remotely.
  • Identification Requirements: The acceptable forms of identification were updated and listed more clearly on the form for clients to choose from, with further guidelines and instructions in the footnotes.


June 2024 Revision:

While the June 2024 version of PS Form 1583 doesn't drastically change the structure introduced in April 2023, it does provide important clarifications that directly impact how CMRAs can complete the form with their customers.

Most notably, the USPS finalized its position on how customer signatures must be witnessed. As of May 1, 2024:

  • Notaries public must be commissioned in a U.S. state, territory, possession, or the District of Columbia.

  • The applicant’s signature must be witnessed live, either:

    • In the physical or virtual (real-time audio and video) presence of the CMRA owner, manager, or authorized employee; or

    • In the physical or virtual presence of a properly commissioned notary public.

This clarification confirms that Remote Online Notarization (RON) is fully acceptable, providing flexibility for CMRAs and customers who interact remotely, so long as the notarial act complies with U.S. state laws.

  • Full CRD Rollout and Compliance: Although the CRD was initially planned for launch in mid-2023 and included a pilot program, it was made available nationwide by January 2024. CMRAs were given a period (approximately 9 months from CRD publication) to upload all existing client documentation (using the updated form) into the database.
  • Continued Emphasis on Digital Submission: With the full rollout of the CRD, CMRAs must now prioritize uploading digital copies of notarized Form 1583s and supporting IDs, rather than relying on paper records. They're also responsible for keeping CRD entries current by submitting new forms whenever there’s a change of address, an update to business or recipient details, or when client identification documents expire.
  • Layout Changes: No changes were made to the layout of the form; however, there were some wording updates:


In summary:


The June 2024 revision of PS Form 1583 builds on the April 2023 version by clarifying key regulations rather than overhauling the form. The April 2023 release introduced a new layout, updated identification guidelines, and laid the groundwork for the CMRA Customer Registration Database (CRD), which moved the USPS toward digital recordkeeping. The June 2024 update focuses on implementation, particularly around notarization: it confirms that Remote Online Notarization (RON) is acceptable, as long as it’s conducted in real time by a U.S.-commissioned notary or witnessed virtually by CMRA staff. With the CRD fully launched as of January 2024, all CMRAs are now required to use the updated form and upload completed forms and IDs to the CRD, marking a full transition to digital compliance.


We've attached a copy of all three versions to this article for your guidance.

 

And for more information about how to fill out the form and notarize it on SphereMail, please consult the following articles: