The cost of mailing a letter will rise this summer following the approval of new U.S. Postal Service (USPS) pricing by federal regulators, with the most significant increase affecting First-Class Mail Forever stamps.
The Postal Regulatory Commission approved USPS’ proposed rate adjustments on Wednesday, enabling the new pricing structure to take effect on July 12. Under the revised rates, a First-Class Mail Forever stamp will increase from 78 cents to 82 cents, representing a 4.8% overall rise in mailing service costs.
Other updated rates include:
- Domestic postcards: 61 cents to 65 cents
- Metered 1-ounce letters: 74 cents to 78 cents
- International postcards: $1.70 to $1.75
- International 1-ounce letters: $1.70 to $1.75
The additional charge for extra ounces on single-piece letters remains unchanged at 29 cents. USPS has indicated the rate increase is essential to address rising operational expenses and ongoing financial pressures.
The updated rates will become effective on July 12. (Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
“In response to the severe financial challenges confronting the Postal Service and elevated operational costs, we are employing all available measures to sustain our universal service commitment and continue delivering essential services to the American public,” USPS stated in its April proposal announcement.
The Postal Service operates without direct taxpayer funding for operational costs, relying instead on revenue generated from postage, products, and services.
The cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp will rise from 78 cents to 82 cents.(Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
While the Commission authorized the rate changes, it highlighted enduring structural challenges facing USPS, including reduced mail volumes, service delivery issues, and a weakening financial position. The Commission noted it lacked legal authority to reject the increase due to its compliance with existing regulations.
Further, the Commission emphasized USPS has exhausted its pricing flexibility under current rules for First-Class Mail, expressing concern about sustained market decline in dominant mail categories, persistent service complications, and the organization’s deteriorating fiscal health as it evaluates potential reforms to the ratemaking framework.
The Postal Service operates without direct taxpayer funding for operational expenses.(Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Stamps purchased before the July 12 rate change will remain valid for mailing standard one-ounce letters regardless of purchase date.