Mailing a letter will soon cost more as the U.S. Postal Service moves forward with another postage rate increase aimed at improving its financial outlook.
Beginning Sunday, July 12, the price of a First-Class Forever stamp will increase from 78 cents to 82 cents. The Postal Regulatory Commission approved the increase in May after the USPS announced the proposed changes in April.
The latest adjustment marks the sixth increase in the cost of a Forever stamp in the past five years. Since 2021, the price has climbed from 58 cents to 82 cents, a 41% increase.
Other postal products will also see higher prices beginning Sunday. Domestic postcards will increase from 61 cents to 65 cents, while international postcards and one-ounce letters will rise from $1.70 to $1.75.
Postal officials say the rate hikes are necessary as the agency continues to face mounting financial challenges. The USPS reported a $9 billion loss during fiscal year 2025, citing rising operating costs and declining mail volume.
According to an analysis by the Postal Regulatory Commission, USPS operating expenses increased by $1.8 billion during the last fiscal year, while revenue grew by only $1 billion. At the same time, mail volume dropped by 3.7%, further straining the agency’s finances.
The commission also raised concerns about the Postal Service’s delivery performance and shrinking customer base, even as postage prices have continued to rise.
Members of Congress from both political parties have also voiced concerns over mail delivery delays. Missouri Senator Josh Hawley recently launched an investigation into ongoing delivery issues in his state, while Texas Representative Veronica Escobar has highlighted similar concerns in the El Paso area.
Despite the latest increase, postal officials have indicated additional price hikes could be on the horizon. Postmaster General David Steiner told lawmakers earlier this year that raising the price of a First-Class stamp to between 90 and 95 cents could significantly improve the agency’s financial position. Steiner also warned Congress that the Postal Service could face serious cash flow challenges within the next year if changes are not made.
Customers who have already purchased Forever stamps do not need to worry about the higher price. Previously purchased Forever stamps remain valid regardless of future price increases, as they always cover the current cost of mailing a one-ounce First-Class letter.