The price of a Forever stamp is now 78 cents, up from 73 cents.
USPS stamps are making headlines this July as the United States Postal Service implements new price increases, impacting millions of Americans who rely on traditional mail. As of July 13, 2025, the cost of sending a letter or postcard has changed, and these updates are crucial for both casual senders and businesses.
USPS Stamps Price Changes Take Effect
The Postal Regulatory Commission has approved a new round of rate increases for USPS stamps and related services. The most notable change is the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp, which has risen from 73 cents to 78 cents—a 5-cent jump that marks the seventh increase since 2021.
This adjustment is part of a broader strategy by USPS to achieve financial stability and keep up with rising operational costs. The new rates also affect other mailing products, including metered letters, postcards, and international mail.
Key Points Summary
- The price of a Forever stamp is now 78 cents, up from 73 cents.
- This is the seventh increase since 2021.
- Other USPS products, such as postcards and metered mail, have also seen price hikes.
- The average increase across mailing services is 7.4%.
- The changes took effect on July 13, 2025.
USPS Stamps Rate Table for July 2025
To help you quickly reference the new rates, here’s a table highlighting the most common USPS stamps and mailing products:
These increases affect both retail and commercial customers. If you print postage at home or use metered mail, be sure to check the updated rates to avoid underpayment.
Why Are USPS Stamps Prices Increasing?
USPS stamps have seen frequent increases in recent years, largely due to the ongoing financial challenges faced by the Postal Service. The organization’s Delivering for America 10-year plan aims to restore financial health, and regular price adjustments are a key part of that strategy.
Key reasons for the latest increases include:
- Rising inflation and operating costs.
- Declining mail volume as more people turn to digital communication.
- The need to invest in infrastructure and improve service reliability.
USPS emphasizes that, even after these changes, American stamp prices remain among the lowest in the world compared to other major postal services.
Impact on Consumers and Businesses
For everyday consumers, the increase in USPS stamps means higher costs for sending letters, greeting cards, and bills. While a 5-cent jump may seem small, it adds up for those who mail frequently.
Businesses that rely on bulk mailing or direct marketing will also feel the impact. The average 7.4% rise in mailing service prices could affect budgets and require adjustments in mailing strategies.
Tips for Managing the Increases
- Stock up on Forever stamps before future hikes—they retain their value even after price changes.
- Review mailing habits and consider digital alternatives where possible.
- For businesses, explore USPS commercial discounts and automation to reduce costs.
Looking Ahead: More USPS Stamps Increases Possible
The July 2025 increase is not expected to be the last. USPS has indicated plans for regular, twice-yearly price reviews through at least 2027, meaning further adjustments could be on the horizon. Staying informed about these changes will help consumers and businesses adapt and plan ahead.
Conclusion
The latest USPS stamps price increases reflect ongoing efforts to ensure the Postal Service’s long-term sustainability. Whether you’re a casual letter writer or a business owner, understanding these changes is essential. Have thoughts on how these increases affect you? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below and stay tuned for more updates as they happen.