USPS Stamp Increase
USPS to Raise Forever Stamp Price to 82 Cents Starting July 12 Amid Financial Challenges
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The U.S. Postal Service will raise the price of first-class Forever stamps from 78 cents to 82 cents starting July 12, according to WGME. The 4-cent increase is the latest in a string of price hikes as the postal service struggles with a deepening financial crisis driven by rising operating costs.
Forever stamps, which were first introduced in 2007 at 41 cents, have nearly doubled in price over the years. Local 12 notes the price has risen roughly 78% since the stamp's debut, climbing to 63 cents, then 73 cents, and now on its way to 82 cents.
July 12 Is the Date to Know
The new 82-cent rate takes effect on July 12. If you want to stock up at the current 78-cent price, you have until July 11, according to KOMO News. Forever stamps never expire and can be used to mail a first-class letter at any time, regardless of when you bought them.
Single-piece letters will stay at a 29-cent rate. That rate covers letters that do not meet standard size or shape requirements, CBS Austin reported. Most everyday envelope mail will be subject to the new 82-cent stamp price.
A Financial Crisis Is Driving the Increase
The USPS is raising prices because its costs are climbing faster than its revenue. The service has faced ongoing financial pressure from declining mail volume and higher labor and fuel expenses, according to News 4 San Antonio. Price increases have become a key tool for keeping the agency afloat.
The postal service is not alone in facing cost pressures. But as a quasi-government agency, it cannot simply cut services without major consequences for millions of Americans who rely on mail delivery, Fox 17 noted.
How the Forever Stamp Price Has Climbed Over Time
The Forever stamp launched in 2007 at 41 cents. Since then, the USPS has raised prices repeatedly. The stamp hit 63 cents, then jumped to 73 cents before reaching today's 78-cent rate. The upcoming move to 82 cents marks yet another step in a long upward trend, according to Turn to 10.
Each increase has been justified by rising costs. But for consumers, the cumulative effect is sharp. A book of 20 stamps that cost $8.20 in 2007 will cost $16.40 after July 12 — exactly double, ABC 6 On Your Side reported.
What You Should Do Before the Price Goes Up
Buying stamps before July 12 locks in the 78-cent price. Because Forever stamps never lose their value, buying a large supply now means you pay less per letter for as long as those stamps last, according to Idaho News. Post offices, grocery stores, and the USPS website all sell stamps.
The change only affects first-class mail stamps. Postcard rates and other mailing services may have their own separate pricing adjustments, News Channel 9 reported. Consumers should check USPS.com for a full breakdown of all rate changes taking effect on July 12.
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