On July 12, 2026, the United States Postal Service implemented its latest pricing adjustments, increasing mailing service rates by an average of approximately 4.8%. These changes affect everything from First-Class Mail and postcards to Certified Mail and various business mailing services.
For organizations that rely on mailing invoices, statements, notices, marketing pieces, and customer communications, understanding these changes is critical for controlling costs and planning future mailings.
1. Forever Stamp Price Increased to 82¢
The most visible change is the increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever Stamp.
- Previous rate: 78¢
- New rate: 82¢
- Increase: 4¢ (5.1%)
While four cents may seem minor, businesses mailing hundreds or thousands of pieces each month will notice the cumulative impact.
2. Metered Letters Also Increased
Businesses using postage meters saw rates increase as well:
- Previous rate: 74¢
- New rate: 78¢
- Increase: 4¢
For organizations that send large volumes of mail, reviewing mailing practices and automation options may help offset the increased postage expense.
3. Postcard Rates Increased
Postcard mailers are also paying more:
- Domestic postcards: 61¢ → 65¢
- International postcards: $1.70 → $1.75
Companies using postcards for marketing campaigns, appointment reminders, or customer outreach should factor these higher costs into future budgets.
4. International Mail Costs More
International mail rates increased across several categories:
- International letter (1 oz.): $1.70 → $1.75
- International postcard: $1.70 → $1.75
Organizations with international customers, vendors, or partners should expect slightly higher mailing costs moving forward.
5. Additional Ounce Price Remains Unchanged
One piece of good news:
- Additional ounce charge remains at 29¢
Businesses sending heavier letters or statements can continue planning postage costs without any change to this surcharge.
6. Certified Mail and Special Services Are Rising
Many business-critical mailing services are becoming more expensive. Examples include:
- Certified Mail: $5.30 → $5.55
- Return Receipt: $4.40 → $4.65
- Other special services, permits, and account maintenance fees also increased.
Organizations that rely on compliance mailings, legal notices, or proof-of-delivery services should review their mailing volume and associated costs.
What This Means for Businesses
While the individual increases may appear small, they can add up quickly:
- 1,000 monthly First-Class letters now cost approximately $40 more per month.
- High-volume marketing mailers may see noticeably larger increases in annual postage expenses.
- Organizations using Certified Mail or other tracking services should expect additional operational costs.
Now is a good time to evaluate:
- Address quality and mail list hygiene
- Electronic billing and statement delivery options
- Postage optimization tools
- Automated mailing solutions
Looking Ahead
USPS officials have indicated that the agency continues to face financial challenges, including rising operating costs and declining mail volumes. As a result, businesses should anticipate continued scrutiny of postal pricing and potential future rate adjustments.
How We Can Help
At Jett Business Systems, we help organizations streamline their document and mail processes through Quadient mailing, shipping, and customer communication solutions. If you're looking for ways to reduce the impact of rising postage costs, our team can help identify opportunities to improve efficiency, automate workflows, and maximize your mailing budget.
Questions about how these USPS changes affect your organization?
Contact our team today to discuss cost-saving mailing strategies and technology solutions.