Changes are on the horizon for the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), and if you frequently send letters or use postal services, it’s crucial to be aware of the upcoming adjustments in pricing. Starting Sunday, Jan. 21, several modifications will take effect, impacting the cost of sending letters, postcards, and various postal services.
Forever Stamp Price Increase:
One of the notable changes is the increase in the cost of Forever Stamps, which are valued for their perpetual usability regardless of future price adjustments. The price of a Forever Stamp will rise from 66 cents to 68 cents. The last increase occurred on July 9, 2023, when prices went from 63 to 66 cents. This adjustment is part of the USPS’s efforts to address financial challenges and achieve stability in line with its Delivering for America 10-year plan.
Additional Changes in Letter Pricing:
– Letters (metered, 1 ounce): 63 cents to 64 cents
– Domestic postcards: 51 cents to 53 cents
– International postcards: $1.50 to $1.55
– International letter (1 ounce): $1.50 to $1.55
Despite these changes, there will be no adjustment to the price for an additional ounce per letter, which will remain at 24 cents.
Apart from letter and postcard pricing, other postal services will also experience increases. Certified mail, post office box rental, money order fees, and the cost of purchasing insurance when mailing an item will see a rise. These adjustments are attributed to “inflationary pressures” affecting operating expenses. The USPS acknowledges the need for these changes as it grapples with the aftermath of a previously defective pricing model.
The USPS, in a statement, explained the rationale behind these adjustments. They pointed to ongoing inflationary pressures on operating expenses and the lingering effects of a flawed pricing model. The price increases are deemed necessary to generate much-needed revenue, enabling the Postal Service to pursue the financial stability outlined in its Delivering for America 10-year plan. Despite the adjustments, the USPS asserts that its prices remain among the most affordable globally.
As these changes take effect, it’s essential for postal service users to factor in the adjusted prices when planning their mailings. Stay informed to ensure a smooth transition and to understand the USPS’s ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving financial challenges.
