The cost of mailing a first-class letter will increase this weekend as the U.S. Postal Service raises the price of a Forever stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents, effective Sunday, July 12.
The increase is part of the USPS’s ongoing effort to address persistent financial losses. Since 2021, the price of a Forever stamp has climbed six times, rising 34% from 58 cents.
Additional postage rates will also increase. Domestic postcards will cost 65 cents, up from 61 cents, while international postcards and one-ounce letters will increase from $1.70 to $1.75.
The Postal Regulatory Commission approved the latest rate increase in May, despite raising concerns about the agency’s financial condition, declining mail volume and delivery performance. During fiscal year 2025, the USPS reported a $9 billion loss as operating expenses outpaced revenue growth and mail volume declined by 3.7%.
The Postal Service has struggled financially for years, with officials citing rising costs, declining mail use and policy changes enacted by Congress, including requirements established under the 2006 Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act.
Postal officials have indicated additional rate increases could be considered as part of long-term efforts to stabilize the agency’s finances.
Customers who purchased Forever stamps before July 12 will not need additional postage. Forever stamps remain valid regardless of future price increases and always cover the current cost of mailing a one-ounce First-Class letter.
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Patrick Byrne lives in Tega Cay with his wife and two daughters. After 25 years working for a Big 4 bank, he retired to pursue his passion for writing. Additional articles and content can be found on his blog (reverian1776.blogspot.com) and freethepeople.org.
Patrick can be reach via email at [email protected]
