What type of postal payment method requires an application fee?

The correct answer is the permit imprint indicia, which is a postal payment method that requires an application fee. This method allows businesses to prepay postage by applying for a permit through the postal service. Once the permit is obtained, businesses can print postage directly on their mail pieces without needing to affix individual postage stamps. The initial application fee is a prerequisite for obtaining the permit, making it a distinct requirement compared to other postal payment methods.

In contrast, other options like postage meters and e-postage involve either rental agreements or subscription fees but do not typically require a formal application fee for initial setup. Online label printing is based on pay-as-you-go models or prepaid services without necessitating an application fee. Thus, the permit imprint indicia stands out for its requirement of an initial application fee to access its benefits.