USPS to Raise Price of Forever Stamp to 82 Cents on July 12

The Postal Service says the increase is necessary to stabilize finances as operational costs continue to rise.

Washington, DC — The cost of mailing a letter in the United States will rise once again as the U.S. Postal Service implements another round of rate adjustments. Beginning July 12, 2026, the price of a First‑Class Forever stamp will increase to 82 cents, up from the current 78‑cent rate. The change is part of a broader 4.8%  adjustment across multiple USPS categories, including First‑Class Mail, postcards, Certified Mail, and post office box rentals.

USPS leadership says the increase is necessary to stabilize the agency’s finances amid rising operational costs. Transportation, labor, and system‑modernization expenses continue to climb, and postal officials have warned that without steady rate corrections, the agency could face significant cash shortfalls within the next year. The July adjustment is one of several planned through 2027 as part of USPS’s long‑term financial strategy.

The new pricing affects more than just letter stamps. Domestic postcards will rise from 61 cents to 65 cents, and metered one‑ounce letters will increase to 79 cents. Certified Mail fees will move to $5.35, and post office box rental rates will see average increases between five and ten percent depending on box size and location. One of the few unchanged categories is the additional‑ounce rate for First‑Class letters, which remains at 29 cents.

For everyday customers, the most practical takeaway is that Forever stamps purchased before July 12 will still carry full value after the increase. Many consumers buy them in advance to lock in the lower rate before adjustments take effect.

The Postal Service has indicated that rate changes will continue as part of its effort to maintain nationwide delivery service while addressing long‑standing financial challenges. The July increase marks the latest step in that process.