The United States Postal Service raises first-class forever stamp prices from 73 cents to 78 cents as part of ongoing financial reforms.
USPS first-class forever stamp now costs 78 cents
The United States Postal Service (USPS) increased the price of first-class forever stamps by 5 cents on Sunday, July 13, moving from 73 cents to 78 cents. The higher stamp prices are now in effect nationwide.According to Marti Johnson, a senior USPS representative, the price hike represents a “rational and realistic approach” as the Postal Service continues efforts to address long-term financial challenges. USPS originally submitted its request for the rate adjustment to the Postal Regulatory Commission in April.
Also read: Wire & cable stocks in focus after Trump’s copper tariff triggers sharp price surge
The agency’s latest increase reflects ongoing efforts to achieve financial self-sufficiency after a decade marked by significant operational and financial hurdles. Former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who left his position in March, previously cautioned postal customers about the likelihood of “uncomfortable” rate hikes moving forward. DeJoy argued that the increases were necessary due to “at least 10 years of a defective pricing model.”
DeJoy’s resignation ended a nearly five-year tenure that included efforts to overhaul USPS’s pricing and operational strategies. His departure came after discussions within President Donald Trump's administration and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency about potentially privatizing the Postal Service to address long-standing financial issues.
Leadership changes continue at USPS amid price increases
Following DeJoy’s resignation in March, Deputy Postmaster General Doug Tulino has assumed the role of acting Postmaster General while the Postal Service Board of Governors continues the search for a permanent replacement.Also read: Bitcoin price surges to record high: Trump’s policies and bullish bets send BTC soaring past $113,000
Trump had considered placing USPS under the control of the Commerce Department in an attempt to curb financial losses at the $78 billion-per-year federal agency. USPS has faced persistent fiscal challenges tied to the ongoing decline in first-class mail usage and shifts in consumer behavior.
Postal workers across the country have actively pushed back against proposals to privatize the Postal Service, voicing concerns over potential job losses and service delays that could result from sweeping structural changes.
The latest stamp price hike is part of USPS’s broader financial strategy as it works to stabilize operations and modernize services in response to market conditions.
