Additional Coverage:
- USPS Raises Forever Stamp Price for the 6th Time in 5 Years – New Cost Starts Sunday (financebuzz.com)
If you regularly send mail through the USPS, now is a good time to consider stocking up on Forever stamps before prices increase this Sunday, July 12. The cost of a Forever stamp will rise from 78 cents to 82 cents, making it more expensive to mail letters, bills, and other First-Class items.
Multiple Price Hikes Over Recent Years
This upcoming change marks the sixth increase in just five years. In 2021, a First-Class stamp cost 58 cents; by Sunday, it will be 82 cents-a roughly 41% increase.
Forever stamps, introduced in 2007 at 41 cents to match the First-Class rate at the time, were created to help customers avoid future price hikes. Since then, the price has effectively doubled over 19 years.
Other Postal Price Changes to Note
The USPS announced a range of price adjustments earlier this year, approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission. Along with Forever stamps, domestic postcards will increase from 61 cents to 65 cents. International postcards and letters will go up from $1.70 to $1.75.
Why Are Postal Rates Rising?
The USPS cited ongoing financial difficulties and rising operational costs as the main reasons for the price increases. According to a recent report, the USPS has been operating at a loss for the past decade, recording a $9 billion net loss for the fiscal year ending in September 2025.
Additional Challenges Facing USPS
Declining mail volume and legislative requirements have further strained USPS finances. Notably, the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act of 2006 mandated the USPS to prepay retiree health benefits, significantly increasing its debt and losses since then.
What You Should Know About Forever Stamps
Any Forever stamps you purchase before the price hike remain valid and usable regardless of future price increases since they do not display a printed denomination. If you mail frequently, buying stamps now at the current price could help you save money in the long run.
Potential for Future Price Increases
Looking ahead, further postage increases may be on the horizon. In March, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy indicated that raising the price of a First-Class stamp to 90 or 95 cents might be necessary to improve USPS’s financial stability. He emphasized that companies generally improve finances by selling more, raising prices, or cutting costs, with the USPS likely needing to focus on higher prices.
Bottom Line
While price increases for services like the USPS are not unexpected given inflation and financial pressures, the upcoming Forever stamp price rise adds to the list of cost increases Americans face, including in gas, housing, and groceries. Purchasing stamps now could provide some protection against future increases, particularly if prices move closer to the 90-cent range.
Money Tips for Everyone
Regardless of your financial situation, there are always ways to improve your money management:
- Increase your income: Consider side hustles or other legitimate ways to bring in extra cash alongside your primary job.
- Grow your savings: Start by understanding your financial standing and consider working with a professional to plan for long-term goals like early retirement.
- Seize savings opportunities: Take advantage of discounts and deals, especially if you’re a senior, and shop smart for essentials like car insurance to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Preparing ahead can help you manage rising costs and safeguard your finances in the months ahead.