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Inflation · Postal Service · Stamp Prices · USPS
The U.S. Postal Service proposed a rate hike for its First-Class Forever stamp, increasing the price from 73 cents to 78 cents, a 6.8% rise, effective July 13, pending approval from the Postal Regulatory Commission.
This marks the 19th price increase for Forever stamps since 2000, with the last hike occurring in July 2024, when the price rose from 68 cents to 73 cents. The USPS stated in a news release that these increases are necessary to achieve "financial stability" and align with its 10-year "Delivering for America plan." This proposed change represents one of five planned price hikes scheduled through 2027. Beyond Forever stamps, other proposed increases include postage for 1-ounce metered letters from 69 cents to 74 cents, domestic postcards from 56 cents to 62 cents, international postcards from $1.65 to $1.70, and 1-ounce international letters from $1.64 to $1.70.
The additional-ounce price for letters will also increase from 28 cents to 29 cents. Notably, the USPS proposes a 12% price reduction for postal insurance.
The Postal Service reported a net loss of $9.5 billion for its 2024 fiscal year, an increase from a $6.5 billion net loss in 2023. This financial instability occurs amidst discussions of potential privatization, following the resignation of former U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy in March, with President Donald Trump and Elon Musk suggesting such a move.
The USPS has operated as an independent government organization since 1971.
