The USPS has had a history of not providing raises to its custodians. A study by the National Association of Letter Carriers in 2004 found that only seven percent of USPS workers received a raise the previous year. The study also found that the USPS was one of the Lowest-paying federal agencies, with an average wage of just over $21,000. In response to this study, the USPS issued a statement in which it said that it does provide raises and that the average wage for its workers is over $31,000.
However, the study found that the raises were not sufficient to offset the cost of living in many areas. In addition, the study found that the USPS does not provide health benefits or retirement benefits to its workers. As a result of these findings, the National Association of Letter Carriers has called for the USPS to provide a minimum wage of $15 an hour and sick leave for all workers.