The U.S. Postal Service
DENVER, CO On Monday, May 14, new postage rates go into effect. The cost to mail a regular First Class once-ounce letter domestically will increase 2 cents, from 39 to 41 cents. The cost to mail a postcard will increase from 24 to 26 cents. Some new rates will actually decrease, such as the price for a two-ounce U.S. First Class letter. That rate will go down from 63 to 58 cents. International postage rates will also change May 14. The cost to mail a letter to Canada or Mexico will change from 63 cents to 69 cents. For detailed information on the new U.S. and international postage rates and a listing of prices, go to the Postal Service’s web site at www.usps.com/ratecase. See below for general new rate examples. This postage rate increase is needed to cover higher U.S. Postal Service (USPS) operating expenses. The Postal Service has incurred higher operating costs due to escalating fuel prices, medical, transportation and other higher expenses. USPS receives no tax dollars for its operations and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to cover its costs. This is the first rate increase to cover USPS operational expenses in nearly five years or since June 30, 2002. The last postage increase happened on Jan. 8, 2006 when the price of a First Class stamp went from 37 to 39 cents. That postage increase was implemented solely because of a federal law that required USPS to fund a $3.1 billion escrow account now used to fund USPS retiree health benefits. Even with this increase, Americans still have one of the lowest postage rates in the world. Postal customers are urged to save time and convenience by buying stamps now. Several stamps that correspond to the new rates are available now including the new 41- cent “Forever” and 41-cent “American Flag Stamps.” Two-cent “Navajo Jewelry” stamps are available now for those wishing to make up the difference with their 39-cent stamps when the rates change May 14. The Forever Stamp (Liberty Bell) can be used now and forever for any future one-ounce First Class increases. Besides post offices, stamps are available at self-serve Automated Postal Center units and vending machines in post office lobbies, at select retail outlets that sell stamps and at postal contract stations. Customers can also purchase stamps by credit card by going to www.usps.com.
