Starting July 13, 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will implement a significant postage rate increase, marking its 20th rate adjustment since 2000 and the seventh since 2021. The price for a 1-ounce First-Class letter will rise by 5 cents to 78 cents, with metered 1-ounce letters increasing to 74 cents and domestic postcards to 61 cents.

International postcards and 1-ounce letters will both cost $1.70, and the additional-ounce price for single-piece letters will go up to 29 cents. This 7.4% overall increase in mailing services comes amid declining use of traditional mail and just before new Postmaster General David Steiner assumes his role.

The USPS has proposed twice-yearly rate hikes for 2026 and 2027, though the Postal Regulatory Commission is considering limiting increases to once per year. Kevin Yoder of Keep US Posted has warned that stamp prices could reach $1.19 by 2030 if the trend continues, urging Steiner to reconsider the hikes.

Meanwhile, Costco offers members the chance to purchase Forever stamps at the current 73-cent rate until July 28, 2025, providing a cost-saving opportunity for bulk mailers, such as those sending wedding invitations. Additionally, USPS is restructuring its distribution network, eliminating Network Distribution Center discounts and certain presort rates, while maintaining Bound Printed Matter rates after a proposed elimination was rejected.