US Postal Service raises Forever stamp price to 82 cents

The United States Postal Service will raise the price of a first‑class Forever stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents, effective July 12. The increase is part of a series of hikes aimed at covering a projected $9 billion fiscal loss for FY 2025, as operating costs outpace revenue and mail volume fell 3.7% last year. The Postal Regulatory Commission approved the change and highlighted concerns about the agency’s finances and delivery performance.

Alongside the stamp increase, the USPS is raising other rates—domestic postcards will cost 65 cents (up from 61 cents) and international postcards will rise to $1.75. A new $7.50 surcharge for parcels containing hazardous materials will also take effect, with a $50 fine for mislabeling. Postmaster General David Steiner has warned that further price hikes, potentially up to 95 cents for a Forever stamp, may be needed to stabilize the service.