The United States Postal Service implemented a new postage rate increase on Sunday, July 13, marking one of its most significant price hikes in recent years. The cost of a First-Class Forever stamp rose by five cents, from 73¢ to 78¢ — the seventh stamp rate increase since 2021 and the 20th since 2000.
Additional changes include:
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Metered 1-ounce letters increasing from 69¢ to 74¢
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Domestic postcards rising from 56¢ to 61¢
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International postcards and 1-ounce letters now costing $1.70 (up from $1.65)
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Additional-ounce pricing climbing to 29¢ from 28¢
The hike arrives as newly appointed Postmaster General David Steiner begins his tenure and as Americans continue to reduce their use of traditional mail services. USPS maintains the increases are part of a “rational and realistic approach to pricing,” stating U.S. postage remains cheaper than many international postal rates.
However, critics argue the continued price jumps are unsustainable. Kevin Yoder, executive director of the advocacy group Keep US Posted, warned that stamp prices could reach $1.19 by 2030 if the current pace continues. The Postal Service has proposed twice-yearly price increases through 2027, although a pending regulatory change could limit adjustments to once annually.
For now, Americans are paying more to send their mail — and bracing for what could be another hike in January.
