The next USPS First-Class Mail price increase is scheduled to take effect July 12, 2026 , pending regulatory approval. The proposed change would raise a First-Class Forever stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents.

What’s changing

  • First-Class Forever stamp: 78 cents to 82 cents.
  • Metered 1-ounce letters: 74 cents to 78 cents.
  • Domestic postcards: 61 cents to 65 cents.

Important caveat

The USPS filed the notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission, so the increase is proposed and depends on review approval before it takes effect. If approved, the new rates would start on Sunday, July 12.

Context

USPS has also said it plans to keep raising mailing prices periodically, and recent reporting says the agency is under continued financial pressure.