The price of a Forever stamp is going up again this summer, with the United States Postal Service planning to raise the cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents beginning July 12, 2026. If approved, the increase would mark another step in the steady climb of postage prices over the last several years.
For consumers, small businesses, online sellers, and anyone who still regularly uses physical mail, the increase is another reminder of the value behind stocking up on Forever stamps before new rates take effect.
At ForeverStamps.com, we track postage rate changes, forever stamp news, tips, and resources. Now, into the rate increase.
What Is Changing?
As reported originally by the Wall Street Journal, the proposed USPS pricing changes would increase the price of a standard Forever stamp by 4 cents, bringing the total to 82 cents per stamp. Other mailing services are also expected to increase, including postcards, international letters, and metered mail rates.
While a few cents may not seem like much at first glance, the increases add up quickly for households and businesses that send invoices, greeting cards, marketing mailers, wedding invitations, or regular correspondence.
For example:
- A book of 20 Forever stamps would increase from $15.60 to $16.40
- A roll of 100 stamps would increase from $78 to $82
- Businesses mailing thousands of pieces per month could see meaningful cost increases over the course of a year
Why Forever Stamps Matter
Forever stamps were introduced to simplify postage purchases and protect consumers from future rate hikes. Once you purchase a Forever stamp, it remains valid for mailing a standard one-ounce First-Class letter regardless of how much postage rates increase later.
That means a stamp purchased today at 78 cents will still work even after the price rises to 82 cents this summer.
For many consumers, Forever stamps act almost like a small hedge against inflation in postal pricing. People who buy stamps in advance before increases take effect can lock in current pricing and avoid paying more later.
Stamp Prices Have Increased Quickly in Recent Years
The upcoming increase continues a trend that has accelerated in the last decade. Not long ago, Forever stamps cost:
- 55 cents in 2020
- 58 cents in 2021
- 63 cents in 2023
- 68 cents in early 2024
- 73 cents later in 2024
- 78 cents in 2025
- Potentially 82 cents in summer 2026
That represents a substantial increase in a relatively short period of time.
USPS has pointed to rising operational costs, transportation expenses, labor costs, and broader financial challenges as key reasons behind the pricing adjustments. The Postal Service continues to deliver mail across more than 170 million addresses nationwide while also attempting to modernize infrastructure and improve long-term financial sustainability.
Should You Buy Forever Stamps Before the Increase?
For most people, the answer is probably yes… especially if you know you will use them eventually.
Forever stamps do not expire, and there is no penalty for purchasing them ahead of time. If you regularly send mail, holiday cards, wedding invitations, business correspondence, or packages that require supplemental postage, buying before the rate increase can provide modest long-term savings.
Many consumers stock up before major postage hikes for exactly this reason.
For now, anyone planning to buy stamps in the near future may want to do so before the July 2026 increase takes effect.
Also check out: Forever Stamps for Weddings
