WASHINGTON — The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is set to increase prices for several mailing services beginning July 12, 2026, after regulators approved adjustments that will raise the cost of common products including first-class stamps, postcards and other mail categories.
The planned changes include a four-cent increase for a First-Class Mail Forever stamp, from 78 cents to 82 cents, according to the Postal Service. The agency said the overall adjustment for mailing services products would increase prices by about 4.8%.
Other scheduled changes include raising the price of a one-ounce metered letter from 74 cents to 78 cents, domestic postcards from 61 cents to 65 cents, and international postcards and one-ounce international letters from $1.70 to $1.75. The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters will remain at 29 cents, USPS said.
The Postal Service filed the proposed mailing services price changes with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) in April. The PRC later favorably reviewed the adjustments, allowing the new rates to take effect on July 12, according to USPS regulatory documents.
USPS said the price adjustments are part of its broader effort to improve financial stability under its 10-year modernization plan. The agency has said pricing decisions are intended to support operations while maintaining nationwide delivery services.
In a separate May announcement, USPS also recommended changes to shipping service prices, saying those rates are primarily adjusted based on market conditions. The Postal Service said its governors evaluate shipping rates and fees as part of efforts to strengthen the organization’s finances and maintain service standards.
The increases will affect several mailing products, including First-Class Mail, Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, Package Services and selected special services, according to USPS filings. The agency has published updated price files and service information through its Postal Explorer resources ahead of the effective date.
The Postal Service relies largely on revenue from postage, products and services rather than regular taxpayer funding for its operations. The agency has faced long-running financial challenges, including declining mail volumes and rising operational costs, while continuing to provide universal postal service across the United States.
The new rates are scheduled to take effect on July 12, 2026, with USPS providing updated pricing information for customers and businesses ahead of implementation.
