Differences Between Stamps and Seals: Definitions to Functions

Stamps and seals are often found on letters and important documents. Although they look similar, stamps and seals actually have different functions.

Based on a post on the Instagram account of Pos Indonesia (@posindonesia.ig), stamps and seals do appear the same because they are both affixed to paper surfaces and printed by PERURI (Security Printing). However, stamps are issued by the Government (KOMDIGI), whereas seals are issued by the Government (Directorate General of Taxes).

Here are the differences between stamps and seals.

Definitions of Stamps and Seals

These are the definitions of stamps and seals used on letters and other important documents.

Stamp

A stamp is proof of payment for mail delivery services. When sending a letter or postcard, the stamp indicates that the delivery fee has been paid according to the applicable rate.

With the presence of a stamp, the shipment can be processed, sorted, and ultimately delivered through various distribution stages to the destination address. Stamps also play an important role in the postal service system by ensuring that every shipment is recorded and accountable.

Seal

Stamp seals and stamped paper are tax payment instruments issued by the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and used on certain documents as a sign that those documents have fulfilled tax obligations in accordance with applicable provisions. The use of seals is generally found on documents such as agreements, receipts, or other official documents, so with the presence of a seal, the document has administrative value and can be used as valid legal evidence.

Seal Duty

Seal duty is a tax on documents regulated in the Seal Duty Law. This tax is imposed on certain documents, and payment can be made using seals or other methods stipulated by the Minister of Finance. This shows that seals have an important role in taxation and document legality.

History of Seals in Indonesia

To understand its current role, seals also have a long journey in Indonesia’s administration and taxation system. Various items have been classified as seal items, such as stamp seals, stamped paper, and other forms used in tax collection on documents.

Around 1950, the need for seal items increased rapidly, although production at that time was not fully able to meet demand. Over time, the government made policy adjustments so that the seal duty system could be implemented more uniformly across all regions of Indonesia.

Differences Between Stamps and Seals

Stamps are used as proof of payment for sending letters or goods through postal services, thus directly related to the shipment distribution process. Meanwhile, seals are used as tax payment for documents and related to legality aspects, which give legal force to those documents.