USPS Raises First-Class Mail Stamp Price 7.4% to 78 Cents

The U.S. Postal Service has implemented another round of price increases, with the cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp rising by 5 cents to 78 cents, effective July 13, 2025. This marks the third increase in the past two years, with the USPS planning to raise prices again twice next year and twice more in 2027. The latest adjustment reflects an average increase of 7.4% across various mailing services, impacting both domestic and international postage.

Domestic postcards will now cost 61 cents, up from 56 cents, while the price for a one-ounce letter has increased from 73 cents to 78 cents. For those who prefer metered mail, the cost for a one-ounce letter will rise from 69 cents to 74 cents. The additional ounce rate for letters has also seen a slight increase, from 28 cents to 29 cents. International postcards will now cost $1.70, up from $1.65, and the price for a one-ounce international letter has increased from $1.65 to $1.70.

The price hike extends to other mailing services as well. First-Class Flats, or large envelopes, will see a 13-cent increase, with the additional ounce rate rising to 30 cents depending on the weight of the envelope. Certified Mail, a service that provides proof of mailing and delivery, will now cost $5.30 per piece, with additional charges for return receipts. The total cost for a one-ounce First-Class letter with Certified Mail and a retail return receipt (Green Card) will be $10.44, while the cost with an electronic return receipt will be $8.86, saving customers $1.58.

The price increases are not limited to First-Class Mail. Marketing Mail, previously known as Standard Mail, will also see adjustments. Commercial Automation rates for Mixed AADC, AADC, and 5-Digit will increase, as will Nonprofit Automation rates for the same categories. These changes are part of the Postal Service's efforts to align its pricing with the rising costs of operations and to maintain the quality of service.

The new rates also affect shipping services, with Priority Mail prices increasing by an average of 6.3% and Ground Advantage prices rising by 7.1%. Priority Mail Express prices remain unchanged. The Postal Service has also introduced new classification changes, including the elimination of the Destination Network Distribution Center (DNDC) price category within Parcel Select and the addition of a $4.00 nonstandard fee for packages with non-standard characteristics.

The price increases are a reflection of the Postal Service's ongoing efforts to manage its financial challenges and maintain its operations. The new rates are expected to generate additional revenue, which will be used to fund improvements in service and infrastructure. Customers are advised to plan for the increased costs and consider alternative mailing options, such as online postage and metered mail, to save on postage expenses.

In summary, the latest price increase by the USPS is part of a broader strategy to achieve financial stability. The Postal Regulatory Commission has approved these increases, deeming them necessary to support the organization's Delivering for America 10-year plan. The USPS has repeatedly increased prices in recent years, with the cost of a Forever stamp rising from 55 cents five years ago to 78 cents today, a 42% increase. The USPS plans to raise prices again in January and July of both 2026 and 2027, indicating that further adjustments are on the horizon.