USPS Raises Forever Stamp Price to 82 Cents Amid Financial Crisis

The U.S. Postal Service is increasing the price of Forever stamps by 4 cents to 82 cents per stamp, effective this weekend, as part of a broader rate adjustment affecting domestic and international mail services. The hike reflects the agency's struggle with mounting financial losses and operational expenses that have accumulated over the past decade.

Price Changes Across Postal Services

The Forever stamp increase from 78 cents to 82 cents marks the fourth price adjustment since the stamp's introduction in 2007, when it cost 41 cents—representing a 100 percent increase in nineteen years. The price hike is part of a comprehensive adjustment to postal rates, with the U.S. Postal Service implementing changes across multiple services. Metered letters will increase from 74 cents to 78 cents, while domestic postcards will rise from 61 cents to 65 cents. International first-class letters weighing one ounce will increase from $1.70 to $1.75. The additional-ounce rate for single-piece letters remains unchanged at 29 cents.

Financial Pressure Drives Rate Increases

The Postal Service announced its intention to raise prices in April, citing a severe financial crisis and escalating operational costs. The Postal Regulatory Commission approved the increases on May 27 after reviewing the agency's financial situation. According to a financial analysis report released in May, the U.S. Postal Service recorded a net loss of 2.7 billion dollars for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. The commission noted that the agency has not achieved profitability in the last decade, with accumulated losses significantly weakening its financial position and creating a substantial gap between assets and liabilities. The overall rate increase across mailing services products is approximately 4.8 percent.

How Forever Stamps Protect Customers

Forever stamps retain their value indefinitely, regardless of future price increases, making them a stable option for consumers concerned about rising postage costs. These stamps remain valid for sending domestic mail, including U.S. territories and military bases overseas, for letters weighing up to one ounce via first-class mail. When heavier items require additional postage, Forever stamps can be combined with other postage to cover the full cost.