USPS raises Forever stamp price to 82 cents starting Sunday

8 July 2026 · Source balance: Centre

The U.S. Postal Service is raising the price of a first-class Forever stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents, effective July 12. This marks the sixth stamp price increase in five years, representing a 34 percent cumulative increase since 2021. The agency cites mounting financial losses and declining mail volumes as the reason for the hike. The Postal Service recorded a 9 billion dollar loss in fiscal 2025, with operating expenses rising 1.8 billion dollars against only 1 billion dollars in revenue growth. Domestic postcard prices are also increasing from 61 to 65 cents. Previously purchased stamps remain valid after the increase. The Postal Regulatory Commission approved the hike in May while flagging concerns about the agency's long-term financial outlook. Postmaster General David Steiner has indicated that stamps may eventually need to reach 90 to 95 cents to stabilize the agency.