Postcard Stamps: Complete FAQ Guide 2025

Sending postcards remains one of the most charming ways to share memories and stay connected with friends and family. Whether you're mailing vacation cards or sending business correspondence, understanding postcard stamps and postage requirements can save you time and money. This comprehensive guide answers the most frequently asked questions about postcard stamps, helping customers navigate USPS services with ease.

 

1. How Much Is a Postcard Stamp in 2025?

The current cost of a postcard stamp is 61 cents as of July 13, 2025. This represents an increase from the previous rate of 56 cents, but still offers significant savings compared to first-class mail stamps, which cost 73 cents for standard letters. The post office maintains these discounted rates because postcards are lighter and require less processing than envelopes.

Postcard postage has remained more affordable than regular stamp prices, making them an excellent option for simple messages. When comparing shipping prices, postcards offer one of the most cost-effective mailing options available through USPS services.

 

2. Do Postcard Stamps Expire?

No, postcard stamps do not expire. Like forever stamps, postcard stamps retain their value indefinitely, regardless of future price increases. This means you can purchase postcards stamps in bulk to save money on future mailing needs.

The ability to use older postcard stamps provides excellent value for customers who send mail regularly. Whether you bought your stamps in January or July, they'll always cover the required postage for standard postcards.

 

3. Are Postcard Stamps Forever Stamps?

Yes, postcard stamps are essentially forever stamps for postcard mail. Once purchased, they maintain their value permanently. However, they're specifically designed for postcards and cannot be used alone for first class letters, which require additional postage.

This forever stamp feature makes them a smart investment for anyone who regularly sends postcards or greeting cards. You can buy a sheet of postcard stamps without worrying about future price changes affecting their value.

 

4. Do Postcards Require Stamps?

Yes, all postcards require proper postage when sent through USPS mail services. Whether you're sending a vacation postcard or business card, you must attach the appropriate stamp before mailing.

The post office requires postage on all mail items, including postcards. Without proper stamps, your postcard will either be returned to you or the recipient may need to pay postage fees upon delivery.

 

5. Can You Use Postcard Stamps for Regular Mail?

No, you cannot use a single postcard stamp for first-class letters. Postcard stamps are worth 62 cents, while first-class mail requires 73 cents in postage. However, you can combine postcard stamps with additional postage to reach the required amount.

For example, if you add an 11-cent stamp to a postcard stamp, you'll have the 73 cents needed for first-class mail. This flexibility gives customers options when mailing different types of correspondence.

 

6. What Do Postcard Stamps Look Like?

Postcard stamps feature the word "POSTCARD" prominently displayed on the stamp design. They're typically smaller than regular stamps and come in various designs featuring American themes, landmarks, or seasonal images. The stamp clearly indicates its purpose and value.

These stamps are easy to identify because of their distinctive labeling and size. When you purchase a sheet of postcard stamps, each stamp will clearly show its intended use for postcard mail.

Coral Reefs Forever Postcard Stamps

 

 

7. Postcard Size and Weight Requirements

Standard postcards must meet specific USPS requirements to qualify for postcard rates:

Size requirements:

• Minimum: 3-1/2 inches high x 5 inches long
• Maximum: 4-1/4 inches high x 6 inches long

Thickness and weight:

• Minimum thickness: 0.007 inches
• Maximum thickness: 0.016 inches
• Must be rectangular in shape
• Must weigh no more than one ounce

Cards that exceed these dimensions or weigh too much will require first class postage instead of discounted postcard rates. The shape must be rectangular, and the address area should be clearly defined.

 

8. Where to Buy Postcard Stamps

You can purchase postcard stamps at several convenient locations:

• Post office locations - Always available at face value
• Online through USPS.com - Easy ordering with delivery options
• Retail stores - Many grocery stores and pharmacies carry stamps
• Authorized dealers - Often offer competitive prices and bulk options

For customers seeking affordable stamps, authorized dealers like Postages.co offer authentic USPS postcard stamps at competitive pricing and with reliable service. These specialized retailers often offer bulk discounts and convenient online ordering, making them ideal for businesses or individuals who mail postcards regularly. The ability to purchase stamps online saves time compared to visiting the post office, while still ensuring you receive genuine USPS postage at fair prices.

 

9. Tips for Using Postcard Stamps Effectively

Verify postcard dimensions before applying stamps to ensure you're using the correct postage amount. Cards that don't meet size requirements will need additional postage.

Consider bulk purchases to take advantage of the forever stamp feature. Since postcard stamps never expire, buying a sheet when prices are current protects against future increases.

Address clearly using dark ink and proper formatting. Include your return address to ensure delivery or return if needed.

Add sufficient postage for international mail, as postcard stamps only cover domestic postage within the United States.

 

Conclusion

Understanding postcard stamps and their proper usage helps ensure your mail reaches its destination while keeping costs manageable. With their affordable price, forever stamp value, and easy availability, postcard stamps remain an excellent choice for simple correspondence. Whether you're sending vacation memories or business communications, these stamps provide reliable, cost-effective postage for your mailing needs.