At The Junk Journal Post, we believe that handwritten letters and meaningful mail are worth sending, receiving and preserving. And whether you’re sending letters to friends, family, pen pals, or participating in Postcrossing, understanding the United States Postal Service postage rates can help you save time and money.
In this guide, we’ll cover current stamp prices, upcoming rate increases, new commemorative releases, different types of stamps, as well as different denomination options, and answer some frequently asked questions about sending snail mail in and from the U.S.
With that being said, the price of stamps in the U.S. is set to go up July 12, 2026. However, not all prices will increase. For example, the additional ounce stamps will remain the same.
The price of stamps doesn’t really go up on a fixed schedule. The USPS periodically adjusts postage rates to help cover operating costs and the maintenance of the U.S.’s national mail system. These changes are usually announced in advance, which gives people plenty of time to prepare.
Since the cost of the stamps varies, depending on the denomination and your preferred way of sending snail mail, several different postage options are covered in today’s article.
How Much Are Stamps in 2026?
If you’re wanting to get into sending more letters, understanding the different stamp prices can help you choose the most cost-effective options for your snail mail. According to the USPS, as of June of 2026, here’s a breakdown of the cost for U.S. postage stamps:
- First-Class Forever stamps: 78¢
- Square, oversized or unusual envelope shapes: $1.27
- Postcard stamps: 61¢
- Global Forever international stamps: $1.70
- Global Forever international postcard stamps: $1.70
- 2oz stamps: $1.07
- 3oz stamps: $1.36
- Additional ounce stamps: 29¢
Similarly, the cost for 1¢, 2¢, 3¢, 4¢, 5¢, 10¢, $1, $2, $5, and $10 stamps are 1¢-$10, respectively.
What Are the Requirements for Sending a Normal Letter?
In general, to send a normal letter, it must be rectangular, flexible, and be able to pass through the USPS’ automated sorting machines. It’s a best practice to ensure the text is darker. If an envelope is also dark, the machines may not be able to read lightly colored ink. To avoid any delays or extra charges, you could simply put a white address label and write or type the address in a dark color.
Additionally, standard letter dimensions must be no larger than 6⅛ inches by 11½ inches. The envelope must be properly sealed, clearly addressed, and include the correct postage – starting in the upper right-hand corner. It’s important to note that envelopes that are unusually thick, square, rigid, or heavily decorated will most likely be classified as non-machinable. This means that extra postage will be required.
Why Do Stamp Prices Increase?
Stamp prices from the USPS periodically increase to support the rising costs of operating the national mail system. This includes vehicle maintenance, fuel, transportation, employee wages, and the upkeep of USPS’s 8,500 processing facilities located across the U.S. Price increases aren’t done at any specific time or year, but they are announced in advance, which gives customers time to prepare and plan ahead.
7 Tips for Saving Money on Postage
Below are some common ways to save money on postage:
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Use Global Forever stamps for international mail, rather than domestic Forever stamps
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Keep letters within the standard size and weight limits, to avoid additional fees
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Weigh mail at home to prevent overpaying
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Plan ahead by purchasing some stamps before an announced price increase occurs
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Use a 2-ounce stamp for letters between 1oz and 2oz, rather than two Forever stamps
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Use a 3-ounce stamp for letters between 2oz and 3oz, rather than three Forever stamps
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Use an additional ounce stamp when letters are between 1 and 2 ounces, and between 2 and 3 ounces
For perspective, a letter up to 1oz is $.78, and the cost to mail a letter between 1oz and 2oz is $1.07. If you were to use two Forever stamps, the cost would be $1.56. But, if you were to use one 1oz stamp and an additional ounce stamp, you’d be exactly $1.07. Similarly, a 2oz stamp is $1.07. Therefore, by using an additional ounce stamp or a 2oz stamp, you’ll be saving nearly 50¢ by not using two 1oz stamps.
How Much Will Stamps Increase in 2026?
If you regularly send letters, postcards or happy mail, it’s worth taking note of these upcoming postage increases so you can pick some up before the new rates take effect. The cost of U.S. postage stamps will increase July 12, 2026, and will be as follows:
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First-Class Forever stamps: 82¢
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Square, oversized or unusual envelope shapes: $1.26 (82¢ + 44¢ non-machinable fee)
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Postcard stamps: 65¢
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Global Forever international stamps: $1.75
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Global Forever international postcard stamps: $1.75
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2oz stamps: $1.11 (82¢ + 29¢)
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3oz stamps: $1.40 (82¢ + 29¢ + 29¢)
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Additional ounce stamps: 29¢ (no change in price)
The cost for 1¢, 2¢, 3¢, 4¢, 5¢, 10¢, $1, $2, $5, and $10 stamps will remain the same.
2026 New USPS Stamps and Commemorative Designs and Releases
Many times, new stamps are released at themed events that are tied to enthusiast communities and special promotions. For example, the new Barbie, Postcrossing, Boston World Expo, International Peace, Figures of the American Revolution, Treasures of the Revolutionary Era, and the North American Soccer stamps.
New Barbie Stamps
The new Barbie stamps were released yesterday, at the 2026 National Barbie Doll Collectors Convention in Austin, Texas. On the stamps, Barbie is depicted in different professions, such as a judge, surgeon and more. Since 1959, the iconic doll has been used to demonstrate that young girls can become anything they set their minds to.
In addition to the stamps, you can also purchase pre-stamped envelopes (postmarks).
The new Barbie stamps are sold in sheets of 10 Forever stamps for $7.80. That cost will increase to $8.20.
History of Barbie Stamps
The first Barbie stamp was released in 1999 and was sold in a pane of 15 stamps, commemorating the 1960s – as a part of the Celebrate the Century postage stamps series. There was only one stamp of Barbie included on that pane, where she was shown wearing a red pillbox hat and pearls. Both of which were favored accessories of First Lady Jackie Kennedy, who was a style icon of that era. More details about Barbie’s history can be found on the Smithsonian magazine’s website.
New Postcrossing Stamps
The new Postcrossing Global Forever stamps were released a couple of weeks ago at the Boston World Expo, at an official First Day of Issue ceremony that was hosted by the USPS. The Postcrossing stamps celebrate the worldwide postcard exchange community known as Postcrossing. Although they aren’t the first triangle-shaped stamps, they are collectable and unique.
Designed by Antonio Alcalá, the four different stamps are stylized views of the world and the joy of postcard exchange. The four designs are as follows:
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Horseback: A mail carrier is shown on a horse, riding through an American Southwest Saguaro desert landscape, holding a postcard
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Underwater: A scuba diver swimming through the coral, delivering a postcard
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Space: An astronaut floats in outer space, carrying a postcard
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Motorcycle: A postal carrier is cruising down the road, holding up a postcard
In addition to stamp sheets, you can also buy pre-stamped envelopes and a stamp portfolio.
More information about the community of 800,000+ people around the world who’ve sent 87,000,000+ postcards can be found on the Postcrossing website.
“Celebrating 250 Years of Delivering” Stamps
The “250 Years of Delivering” commemorative stamps were released July 23, 2025, in honor of the establishment of the postal system in 1775. The stamp sheet reflects 250 years of connection and communication, and highlights how mail has connected people across cities – for generations. The design of these stamps include historical and modern aspects, paying tribute to the carriers, routes and evolving systems that have kept people connected.
What’sparticularly special about the sheet of 20 stamps is that it is a bird’s-eye view of a town, showing different modes of transportation of the mail carriers. It also shows lots of people, homes, shops, and a town square. Found throughout the postcard sheet are trees showing the different seasons. Each stamp on its own also shows at least one mail carrier or delivery truck.
Boston World Expo Commemorative Stamps
The Boston World Expo commemorative stamps were issued by the USPS to celebrate the tradition of world expositions in culture, innovation and global exchange. They highlight not only a shared excitement of collecting, but the connection people have had throughout postal history. World Expo-themed stamps typically feature designs that reflect technological progress and international collaboration. These stamps were released at the Boston World Expo philatelic event in Boston,
The Boston World Expo-theme can be found not only on stamp sheets, but on t-shirts, Field Notes notebooks, postcards, canvas tote bags, and other keepsakes – which can be purchased on the USPS Stamps Forever website.
Commemorative, Designer and Charity Stamps You Can Collect
The USPS offers a variety of stamps that go beyond just everyday postage and they often highlight culture, design and meaningful causes. For example, the Mister Rogers stamps honor the beloved television host for his kindness and lasting impact on children. The American Icons by Ralph Lauren series blends fashion and patriotism, showcasing several different interpretations of classic American imagery, such as
Additionally, you can purchase semipostal stamps, which are commonly referred to as charity stamps. They are special postage stamps sold at a premium price in order to raise money for a specific charitable cause.
Conclusion
Despite some periodic price increases, sending snail mail remains a beloved way to stay connected not only to friends and loved ones, but even complete strangers. Whether you’re purchasing Forever stamps before the rates increase, collecting commemorative issues, or sending a simple postcard, understanding your postage options can help you get the most out of every stamp you use. As the USPS celebrates 250 years of service, now is the perfect time to take stock in the role mail plays in connecting people, and even show your personality through a thoughtfully selected stamp.
If learning about stamps has inspired you to send or receive more snail mail, you may enjoy receiving monthly happy mail through The Junk Journal Post, a subscription created for journalers, paper lovers and creative memory keepers.
14 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About US Postage Stamps
What is the USPS?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a self-financing, independent federal establishment. The USPS serves to deliver reliable and secure mail and packages to more than 170 million addresses.
When does the USPS deliver mail?
The USPS typically delivers mail six days a week, but oftentimes seven.
How old is the USPS?
The USPS is celebrating its 250th year of service.
When was the USPS established?
The USPS was established July 26, 1775, so it has technically been delivering mail for longer than the U.S. has been a country.
Does the USPS receive tax dollars for operating expenses?
No, the USPS generally does not receive any tax dollars in order to fund its operations, as it depends on sales from its products, postage and other services.
Can I use a regular stamp on a postcard?
Yes, you can use a regular stamp on a postcard, however you’ll be overpaying for postage. The USPS has designated stamps for postcards that are generally 17¢ less than a regular 1oz stamp.
What are Forever stamps?
Forever stamps are postage stamps that the USPS issues for mailing standard (First-Class) letters. A Forever stamp will always maintain its value. Meaning, if you bought a stamp when postage was 78¢, you can still use it to mail a 1oz letter even when the price of Forever stamps goes up to 82¢.
Do Forever stamps expire?
No, Forever stamps do not expire. When you purchase Forever stamps, their value and usability remains valid for mailing standard one-ounce First-Class letters, regardless of any postage rate increases in the future.
What is the difference between a book of stamps and a sheet?
A book of stamps is a small booklet that typically contains 20 Forever stamps. It is usually arranged in multiple sheets. A sheet of stamps is a larger, flat sheet that commonly contains 20 or 30 stamps. Sheets of stamps often appeal more so as collectors’ items because they feature larger artwork or commemorative themes.
Can I use old stamps on my letter?
Yes, you can use old USPS stamps to mail your letter, as long as they are not counterfeit, defaced, used, or non-postage stamps.
What are Global stamps?
Global stamps, otherwise known as Global Forever stamps, are postage issued by the USPS and are designed for sending international mail.
What are Postcrossing stamps?
Postcrossing Global Forever stamps are postage stamps issued by the USPS that cover postage for international postcards and international 1oz letters.
How much are Postcrossing stamps?
One Postcrossing Global stamp is $1.70, as of June 12, 2026. That price will increase July 12, 2026 to $1.75. The USPS sells Postcrossing Global stamps in sheets of 8 for $13.60 - which will increase to $14.00.
What are some different price stamps I can get?
The USPS offers definitive/denominated stamps that are printed with exact monetary values, such as $1, $2, $5, $10, etc.
About the Author
Heather is the founder of The Junk Journal Post, a monthly snail mail subscription club for journalers and memory keepers. She enjoys traveling, letter writing, journaling, and helping others slow down through meaningful mail.