The United States Postal Service has announced proposed price increases for mailing services that could take effect July 12, pending approval from the Postal Regulatory Commission.
Under the proposal, the cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp would rise by four cents, increasing from 78 cents to 82 cents. Overall, mailing service prices would increase by approximately 4.8 percent.
Other proposed changes include a 4-cent increase for metered letters, bringing the cost to 78 cents, while domestic postcards would rise from 61 cents to 65 cents. International postcards and one-ounce international letters would both increase from $1.70 to $1.75. The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters would remain unchanged at 29 cents.
Postal officials say the adjustments are part of ongoing efforts to address financial challenges and rising operational costs. The agency, which relies primarily on postage and service revenue rather than tax dollars, is using its pricing authority to help maintain operations and meet its universal service obligations.
In addition to First-Class Mail, the Postal Service is also seeking price adjustments for other products, including Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services, and select Special Services.
The Postal Regulatory Commission will review the proposed changes before issuing a final decision. If approved, the new rates would take effect nationwide in mid-July.