USPS raises stamp prices as part of financial stability plan
- On July 14, 2025, the USPS raised First-Class Mail Forever stamp costs to 78 cents as part of its financial stability plan.
- This increase represents a 7.4% uptick and impacts other mailing rates, including letters and postcards.
- The moves are part of a multi-year strategy to reverse significant financial losses and enhance operational efficiency.
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) implemented an increase in the price of its First-Class Mail Forever stamp, raising it to 78 cents on July 14, 2025. This change is part of a broader strategy to ensure the financial stability of the USPS over the next decade. The increase follows a succession of reorganizations and funding adjustments stemming from a financial crisis that has burdened the organization with substantial losses in recent years. In conjunction with the stamp price hike, the additional-ounce price for single-piece letters experienced an increase, rising to 29 cents from the previous 28 cents. The rise in mailing service product prices reflects a 7.4% increase across the board. This move forms part of the USPS's Delivering for America plan, which was announced in 2021 to establish pathways for self-sustainability and improved operational effectiveness. As part of the delivery framework, the USPS aims to allocate around $20 billion towards upgrading its mail and package processing networks and $19 billion for its retail and delivery networks. Additional funds are also earmarked for technology enhancements, including significant upgrades to its major IT systems. The financial recovery strategy highlights the importance of stabilizing the USPS amid projected operational losses of up to $160 billion, underscoring the agency's commitment to ensuring that its prices remain competitive, despite increases. Furthermore, the USPS anticipates five additional price changes by the end of 2027, with the next increase expected in July 2025, affecting all Market Dominant classes. This strategy suggests that the organization is taking proactive steps to avoid future financial instability while maintaining affordability in comparison with global postal services. By restructuring pricing and investing in infrastructure, the USPS aims not only to stabilize but also to enhance service delivery continuously.