07/13/2026
The price of a first-class Forever stamp rose from 78 cents to 82 cents on July 12.
The increase is part of a series of price hikes from the U.S. Postal Service, which has raised the cost of a first-class stamp several times in recent years.
USPS has cited financial losses, rising operating expenses, and declining mail volume as reasons for the latest increase.
Other postage costs also increased. Domestic postcards rose to 65 cents, while international postcards and letters rose to $1.75.
One important reminder: Forever stamps purchased before the increase still work after the price change. They continue to cover the current cost of one ounce of First-Class Mail postage.
For households and small businesses, postage may seem like a small expense — but recurring cost increases can add up over time, especially for anyone who still relies on mailed bills, invoices, cards, or client communications.
The cost of a first-class Forever stamp has climbed 41% since 2021, and postal officials have signaled they want prices to rise even more.
