WASHINGTON—Starting next week, the “Forever” stamp cost will rise by five cents to 73 cents, marking the second price hike by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) this year. This increase is part of a broader strategy to ensure the USPS’s financial stability, as outlined in its Delivering for America 10-year plan.
Forever stamps have steadily increased in price since their introduction in 2007, when they were priced at 41 cents. The most recent increase came in January, from 66 to 68 cents. This latest adjustment brings the total price increase to 78% over 17 years.
In addition to the Forever stamp price hike, other postage rates will also rise. The cost to mail a domestic postcard will increase by 3 cents to 56 cents, while international postcards and letters will each see a 10-cent rise to $1.65. Overall, these changes represent a 7.8% increase in postage costs.
The domestic price adjustments will affect several services. For example, metered 1-ounce letters will now cost 69 cents, up from 64 cents. Additionally, the price for domestically mailing a postcard will rise to 56 cents, a 3-cent increase. These changes reflect the USPS’s efforts to align its prices more closely with inflation and operational costs.
For international mail, the cost of sending postcards and letters will increase from $1.55 to $1.65. This 10-cent hike aligns with the USPS’s broader strategy to adjust its pricing structure across all services, ensuring it can cover costs and remain competitive globally.
Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has emphasized the necessity of these “uncomfortable” rate hikes as part of the USPS’s financial self-sufficiency efforts. He pointed out that these adjustments are long overdue, following at least a decade of a flawed pricing model. The USPS is currently undertaking significant measures to reduce debt and boost revenue, and these price increases are a critical component of that strategy.
Delivering for America Plan
The Delivering for America 10-year plan, introduced in 2021, aims to transform the USPS into a financially stable and modern organization. Key components of the plan include reducing operational costs, investing in new technologies, and optimizing the postal network to improve efficiency. The plan also emphasizes the need for regular price adjustments to ensure that the USPS can meet its financial obligations.
The USPS is implementing various measures to improve operational efficiency to achieve its goals. These include streamlining mail processing facilities, enhancing transportation networks, and adopting new technologies to automate sorting and delivery processes. The USPS hopes to reduce costs and improve service quality by optimizing its operations, ultimately benefiting consumers.
Despite their financial necessity, these price increases have not been without criticism. Lawmakers and consumers have expressed concerns over the impact on mail volume and delivery times. Some argue that the rising costs may deter people from using postal services, further exacerbating the USPS’s financial challenges.
Concerns from Lawmakers
Several lawmakers have voiced concerns over the USPS’s strategy, particularly the impact on mail delivery times. Delays in mail delivery have been reported across various regions, prompting criticism from constituents. These delays have been attributed to the ongoing restructuring efforts and operational changes implemented in the Delivering for America plan.
Consumers have also expressed frustration over the rising costs. Many rely on postal services for essential communications and deliveries, and the price hikes may impose an additional financial burden. However, the USPS has emphasized that these changes are necessary to ensure long-term sustainability.
Even as prices increase, the USPS is expanding its selection of Forever stamps. Recently, two new stamps were introduced: one featuring baseball legend Hank Aaron and another honoring Canadian-American game show host Alex Trebek. Aaron, known for holding the home-run record for three decades, and Trebek, celebrated for his long tenure as the host of Jeopardy!, are among the latest figures to be commemorated.
Hank Aaron and Alex Trebek
The public received the new Forever stamps featuring Hank Aaron and Alex Trebek. Aaron, a baseball icon, is celebrated for his contributions to the sport and his role as a trailblazer for African American athletes. Trebek, beloved by millions of viewers, is honored for his decades-long career as the host of Jeopardy! and his impact on popular culture.
In addition to Aaron and Trebek, the USPS has also introduced stamps honoring former First Lady Betty Ford, UCLA men’s basketball coach John Wooden, and notable conductors of the Underground Railroad. These commemorative stamps celebrate the achievements and contributions of these individuals, providing a unique way for consumers to connect with history and culture through their mail.
Practical Tips for Consumers
For those holding Forever stamps, rest assured that they will still cover the cost of mailing a first-class letter weighing up to one ounce. If you have non-Forever stamps, you can use them, but you’ll need to ensure the total postage equals 73 cents for a first-class mail letter.
Consumers who have already purchased Forever stamps at a lower price can continue using them without additional cost. This feature provides a cost-saving benefit for those who buy stamps in bulk or ahead of price increases. It’s an effective way to mitigate the impact of future postage rate adjustments.
Calculating Postage with Non-Forever Stamps
For non-Forever stamps, ensuring that the total postage meets the new rate of 73 cents for a first-class mail letter is essential. This might require adding additional stamps to cover the difference. Consumers can visit their local post office or use the USPS website to calculate the exact postage required for their mail.
As the USPS navigates its financial challenges, the latest postage rate increases are necessary to achieve long-term fiscal health. The USPS has faced significant financial difficulties for years, compounded by declining mail volumes and rising operational costs.
One of the major challenges for the USPS has been the significant decline in mail volume. With the advent of digital communication, traditional mail has seen a steady decrease. This shift has affected the USPS’s revenue, making it crucial to adjust pricing and optimize operations to maintain financial stability.
Operational Cost Management
To address rising operational costs, the USPS is implementing various cost-saving measures. These include modernizing its fleet of delivery vehicles, adopting energy-efficient technologies, and consolidating mail processing facilities. By reducing costs, the USPS aims to improve its financial outlook and continue providing essential services to the public.
Despite these challenges, the USPS remains committed to providing reliable and affordable postal services. The organization continuously explores new ways to enhance its services, improve operational efficiency, and ensure financial sustainability. Consumers can expect ongoing changes as the USPS adapts to the evolving landscape of communication and delivery.
The USPS is implementing these price increases as part of a broader strategy to achieve financial stability and continue providing essential services to the public. While these changes may be uncomfortable for consumers, they are necessary for the postal service’s sustainability. Staying informed and utilizing Forever stamps can help mitigate the impact of these adjustments on your mailing costs.
