The price of mailing a letter in the United States has changed again. Starting in July 2024, the cost of a “Forever” stamp increased, marking the second price hike by the United States Postal Service (USPS) this year. For those wondering, How Much Is A Us Stamp Today? Let’s break down the current pricing and the reasons behind these adjustments.
Since their introduction in 2007 at 41 cents, Forever stamps have seen steady increases. The most recent adjustment before July was in January, when the price rose from 66 cents to 68 cents. Understanding these changes is crucial for both personal and business mailers.
Current Postage Rates and Changes
As of July 14, the price of a Forever stamp is 73 cents. This isn’t the only change; other postage rates have also been adjusted. Mailing a domestic postcard now costs 56 cents, up 3 cents. International postcards and letters have both increased by 10 cents, bringing their cost to $1.65 each. According to a statement released by USPS in April, these changes represent an overall postage cost increase of 7.8%.
This image shows a Forever stamp featuring a floral design, one of the options available to customers. The price of a Forever stamp is now 73 cents.
Why the Price Increase?
The USPS has attributed these price adjustments to the need for financial stability. These measures are part of the organization’s “Delivering for America” 10-year plan. The goal is to address the agency’s debt and boost revenue through various strategies, including adjustments to postage rates. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has indicated that consumers should anticipate further “uncomfortable” rate hikes as the Postal Service strives to become self-sufficient after years of what he described as a “defective pricing model.”
Other USPS Changes
While postage prices are increasing, some other costs are not. The price of renting a Post Office Box will remain the same. Additionally, the USPS is reducing the cost of postal insurance by 10% for mailed items.
New Forever Stamp Options
Despite the price increases, customers have new Forever stamp options to choose from. Recently, USPS introduced stamps honoring baseball legend Hank Aaron and Canadian-American game show host Alex Trebek.
This image features the Alex Trebek Forever stamp, commemorating the beloved Jeopardy! host. USPS offers various commemorative stamps alongside the standard Forever stamp.
Other notable Forever stamps launched this year include those honoring former First Lady Betty Ford, UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, and conductors of the Underground Railroad.
Impact of Rising Postage Costs
The rising postage costs are not without consequences. Critics argue that the increases are hurting mail volume and the USPS’s overall financial performance. The agency reported a $6.5 billion loss for fiscal year 2023 and projects a $6.3 billion deficit in 2024, according to Keep US Posted, a nonprofit advocacy group. As prices continue to rise, the USPS faces the challenge of balancing financial stability with maintaining service and affordability for its customers.
Staying Informed on Postage Prices
Keeping track of postage rates can help you manage your mailing expenses. Always check the latest updates from the USPS to ensure you have the correct postage for your letters and packages. By understanding the current costs and the factors driving price changes, you can make informed decisions about your mailing needs. Now you know the answer to the question, how much is a US stamp today? – 73 cents.
