USPS postage rates increasing July 12, Forever stamp rises to 82 cents

Mailing a letter through the U.S. Postal Service will cost more beginning July 12 after federal regulators approved another round of postage rate increases.

The Postal Regulatory Commission on Wednesday approved the U.S. Postal Service's proposed mailing services price changes, allowing the new rates to take effect as scheduled.

Under the new pricing, the cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp will increase by 4 cents, rising from 78 cents to 82 cents. Overall mailing service prices will increase by approximately 4.8%, according to USPS.

Several other mailing services also will see higher prices. The cost to mail a domestic postcard will increase from 61 cents to 65 cents, while the price of a metered 1-ounce letter will rise from 74 cents to 78 cents.

International mail also will become more expensive. The price to send an international postcard will increase from $1.70 to $1.75, and the cost of an international 1-ounce letter will also rise from $1.70 to $1.75.

The additional-ounce charge for single-piece letters will remain unchanged at 29 cents.

USPS officials said the rate adjustments are necessary as the agency continues to address rising operating expenses and long-term financial challenges. The Postal Service has implemented several price increases in recent years as part of its broader effort to strengthen its financial position while continuing to provide universal mail service.

Customers planning to mail letters or postcards after July 12 are encouraged to purchase Forever stamps at the current rate before the increase takes effect. Forever stamps purchased before the price change will continue to be valid for mailing First-Class letters regardless of future rate increases.