USA
U.S. Postal Service Proposes Stamp Price Hike Effective July 12: The United States Postal Service has announced proposed changes to mailing service prices, including a 4-cent increase in the cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp, which would rise from 78 cents to 82 cents starting July 12, pending regulatory approval.
The proposal, submitted to the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC), outlines an overall price adjustment of approximately 4.8 percent across various mailing services. The changes have already been approved by the Postal Service’s Board of Governors and are now under review by the Commission.
Key Proposed Price Changes
If approved, the revised pricing structure will include:
- Letters (1 ounce): Increase from 78 cents to 82 cents
- Metered letters (1 ounce): Increase from 74 cents to 78 cents
- Domestic postcards: Increase from 61 cents to 65 cents
- International postcards: Increase from $1.70 to $1.75
- International letters (1 ounce): Increase from $1.70 to $1.75
The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters will remain unchanged at 29 cents.
In addition to First-Class Mail, the Postal Service is also seeking price adjustments for other categories, including Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services, and selected Special Services products.
Financial Pressures Drive Adjustments
The proposed rate hike comes as the Postal Service continues to navigate significant financial challenges and rising operational costs. Unlike many federal agencies, the USPS operates as a self-funded entity and does not rely on taxpayer dollars for its day-to-day expenses.
“The Postal Service is using all available tools, including its regulatory pricing authority, to maintain financial stability and fulfill its universal service obligation,” the agency stated.
Despite the increase, USPS emphasized that its mailing services remain among the most affordable globally, even as it works to sustain operations across more than 170 million delivery addresses nationwide.
250 Years of Service Amid Modernization
The announcement coincides with the Postal Service’s 250th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its long-standing role as a cornerstone of American communication and commerce.
As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, USPS is implementing strategies aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing service reliability, and securing long-term financial sustainability. The agency continues to operate six—and in many cases seven—days a week, ensuring consistent delivery services across the country.
The PRC is expected to complete its review in the coming weeks. If approved, the new pricing will take effect on July 12.
