USPS Increases Prices for First-Class Mail

The US Postal Service has recently raised prices for first-class mail, marking another round of cost increases in recent years.

In April, the USPS announced these price hikes as part of their efforts to reach financial stability.

The latest adjustment took effect on Sunday, resulting in a 7.4% increase in the cost of first-class mail stamps alone.

Interestingly, the new “Eternal Stamp” featuring Spongebob Squarepants, which commemorates the USPS’s 250th anniversary, was released, along with designs from former First Lady Barbara Bush.

If you’re looking to send a postcard, be prepared to pay between 56 cents and 61 cents. For those sending postcards or letters internationally, the costs range from $1.65 to $1.70.

The USPS noted in April that their prices remain among the most affordable globally.

While the agency opposed price increases back in January, ongoing rising costs have taken a toll in recent times.

Since 2012, the price of Forever Stamps—which were 45 cents back then—has seen almost annual increases. There were no hikes in 2015 and 2020, but there have been two already in 2023 and 2024, according to USPS data.

Last summer marked a significant jump for the Forever Stamp, which rose from 68 cents to 73 cents—the largest increase since 2019.

Looking ahead, additional price raises might be on the way. Last September, the USPS suggested increasing prices for five stamps over the next three years, with possible hikes slated for January and July each year.

At that time, the agency emphasized that these changes were essential to fulfill their obligation to remain financially self-sufficient.

There’s some uncertainty about how this pricing plan established during President Biden’s administration will fare under Trump, should he take office again. Earlier this year, Trump hinted at possible adjustments for the USPS, just before Postmaster Louis DeJoy resigned a month later.