Washington — The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced plans to raise the price of a first‑class Forever stamp from 80 cents to 82 cents, effective September 2026, pending approval by the Postal Regulatory Commission.
The proposed increase is part of USPS’s ongoing effort to address rising operational costs and declining mail volume. Officials noted that while the adjustment is modest, it reflects the need to maintain financial stability and modernize postal infrastructure.
If approved, the new rates would also affect other mailing categories, including postcards, international letters, and metered mail, though details vary by service. USPS emphasized that the changes are necessary to sustain universal service obligations while continuing to expand package delivery operations.
Consumer advocates expressed concern that frequent rate hikes could burden households and small businesses, while USPS countered that the increases remain below inflation levels and are critical to long‑term viability.
The Postal Regulatory Commission is expected to issue a decision later this summer, with the new rates scheduled to take effect in early fall.
Credit: People / USPS
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