Wondering how much are post office stamps today? With the 2025 rate increase in effect, many people—whether sending holiday cards, managing event invites, or running small businesses—are curious how much postage truly costs, and whether buying in advance makes sense.
2025 Stamp Rates: What You Need To Know
As of July 13, 2025, the price of a First-Class Forever stamp is now $0.78, up from 73¢ in 2024. Postcards now require $0.61, and international letters cost around $1.70. These updated rates reflect USPS’s ongoing adjustments to operating costs and funding models.
Why People Are Talking About Stamp Prices
In online discussions, many mention having stocked up on Forever stamps early, saving significant money when the price jumped. Business owners mailing in high volumes share concerns about how even a few cents per envelope can affect margins. Meanwhile, postal crafters and stamp collectors note how popular designs—especially holiday or vintage themes—tend to disappear quickly, reinforcing the value of buying early.
At-a-Glance Rate Comparison
| Mail Type | 2024 Rate | 2025 Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Forever First-Class Stamp | $0.73 | $0.78 |
| Postcard | $0.56 | $0.61 |
| International Letter (Global) | $1.65 | $1.70 |
Where to Buy Post Office Stamps—Smart Options
Whether through the official USPS store, in person at post offices, or at self-service kiosks, buying remains accessible. Many turn to wholesale outlets like Costco for bulk pricing, while others prefer the convenience of shopping online—some even subscribe to automatic mail delivery to avoid the risk of running out. For themed event mailings, our store offers curated bundles that combine practicality with aesthetic appeal.
Clever Strategies That Work
- Lock in current postage prices by buying Forever stamps now.
- Purchase rolls of 100 if mailing regularly—transaction time and cost per stamp decrease.
- Order specialty stamps early, especially for holidays or branded campaigns, to avoid sellouts.
Does It Matter Which Stamp You Use?
All Forever stamps—regardless of when they were issued—remain valid for the current rate. The key is their “Forever” status. Older denomination-only issues (like old 50¢ stamps) do require additional postage. For collectors, vintage issues have aesthetic and historical value, though functionally Forever stamps are the best no-muss no-fuss option.
Practical Examples
Mailing 100 wedding invites? Budget $78 for postage using Forever stamps. Sending holiday cards abroad? A Global Forever stamp for ~$1.70 does the trick. For businesses operating regular mailing campaigns, the cents difference is real—savvy mailing departments calculate costs meticulously to maintain profitability.
How USPS-Store.com Helps You Mail Better
At USPS-Store.com, we offer:
- Bulk rolls and booklets of Forever stamps—perfect for personal or event use
- Themed stamps (holiday, wedding, patriotic) that add character and convenience
- Auto-delivery subscriptions so your mailing closet never runs dry
You can browse our stamp collection or explore our blog for tips on using stamps creatively while managing costs.
Takeaway
Yes, post office stamps today cost a bit more—but with this guide, you’re ready to plan. Buying Forever stamps now, in bulk or themed bundles, shields you from future hikes and ensures your mail always has the perfect stamp. Smart planning saves both time and money.