USPS to Raise Stamp Prices Five Times by 2027: What It Means for Buyers

The USPS plans to increase stamp prices five times through 2027, representing the most aggressive rate increase schedule in postal history. With current stamps at 73 cents, buyers face a potential 23% increase by late 2027, bringing first class stamp costs to nearly 90 cents.

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy confirmed the postal service remains committed to implementing these specific price hikes while maintaining market-dominant services. The USPS confirmed that it will not raise stamp prices in January 2025, but the escalation begins at least in July 2025. This dramatic pricing shift stems from the USPS's legal obligation to be financially self-sufficient while addressing a projected $160 billion loss over the next decade.

Timeline and Price Changes Through 2027

• 2025 Baseline: Starting at 73 cents for first-class postage
• July 2025: The next price hike is planned for July 2025, with subsequent increases scheduled for January and July thereafter until the end of 2027. The first increase brings postage stamps to an estimated 78 cents.
• 2026 Double Impact: Two planned price changes during the year will push mail rates to approximately 82-83 cents by year's end.
• 2027 Final Push: The last increases will bring stamps to an estimated 88-90 cents by late 2027, reflecting continued cost-saving measures despite projected inflation declining in recent forecasts.

 

The Postal Regulatory Commission must approve all rate adjustments, but the USPS board has outlined this systematic approach to shore up postal finances while keeping services affordable time over the next several years.

Stamp prices in the U.S. have risen 46% since early 2019, when they were 50 cents. The upcoming five-increase cycle will accelerate this trend significantly, making the 2025-2027 period the most expensive postal adjustment in modern history. Only a handful of rate increase cycles have matched this aggressive timeline in USPS history.

 

Impact on Consumers and First Class Mail Users

Wedding Planners:

A couple sending 200 wedding invitations will pay an extra $30-40 compared to today's first class mail rates.

Small Businesses:

Local businesses mailing 500 pieces monthly will face an additional $85-100 annually by 2027, directly impacting the postal service's business relationships with commercial customers.

Holiday Card Senders:

Families sending 100+ holiday cards annually will pay $17-20 more in 2027 than today's rates.

Nonprofit Organizations:

Charities sending 1,000 fundraising letters annually will face an additional $170-200 in mailing costs by 2027, affecting their ability to maintain market dominant communication strategies.

Protection Against Rising Stamp Prices and Action Steps

For heavy mailers, buying 500-1,000 Forever stamps before the final 2027 increase could save $85-170. Even modest purchases of 100-200 stamps before each scheduled increase generate meaningful savings over time.

Example Savings:

• Current first class stamp: 73 cents
• Projected 2027 value: 90 cents
• Your guaranteed savings: 17 cents per stamp

Where to Buy Forever Stamps at Competitive Prices:

For collectors and bulk buyers looking to stock up before the next price increase, we offer authentic Forever stamp collections at competitive pricing. Our inventory includes popular designs like Flag series, Love stamps, and seasonal collections - perfect for beating the upcoming rate increases.

2019 US Flags Forever Stamps

 

2011 Wedding Rose Forever First Class Postage Stamps

 

The postal service remains committed to honoring Forever stamp values regardless of future rate adjustments, making them a reliable hedge against these specific price hikes. Rate increases historically drive collector interest in Forever stamps, as more people discover the investment potential of stamps that maintain value regardless of future price changes.

The Postal Regulatory Commission oversees these rate adjustments to ensure they align with market dominant services requirements. The United States Postal Service must balance keeping services affordable with implementing continued cost saving measures necessary for financial sustainability, as Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has emphasized for long-term operational stability.

The mathematics are clear: Forever stamps represent protection against the biggest postal rate increase cycle in modern history. While most Americans will watch mailing costs spiral upward times over the next few years, informed buyers are taking action now to lock in current pricing.

Immediate Action Steps:

1. Calculate Annual Usage: Track yearly stamp usage for personal and business first class mail
2. Plan Strategic Purchases: Buy before each scheduled rate increase
3. Prepare Proper Storage: Set up acid-free storage in cool, dry locations

Don't let aggressive rate increases drain your budget. Stock up on Forever stamps at today's prices and secure your mailing future through 2027 and beyond!