US Postal Service to Increase Rates in 2021 – Stamp Prices Remain Unchanged

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) regarding pricing changes for mailing services and shipping products set to begin on January 24, 2021.

The new rates, approved by the USPS Board of Governors, will increase prices for First-Class Mail by approximately 1.8 percent. Prices for other mailing services categories will go up by about 1.5 percent on average. Competitive international shipping options will also see rate hikes based on current market conditions.

According to the Postal Service, the planned increases are necessary to provide the agency with much-needed revenue even as it continues to offer some of the most affordable letter mail rates compared to other industrialized nations. The USPS does not charge fuel surcharges or extra fees for Saturday delivery like some private carriers.

Notable highlights from the new rate changes:

• Forever stamp prices will remain unchanged at $0.55
• Additional ounce for single-piece letters will increase by 5 cents to $0.20
• Metered mail for 1 ounce letters will rise by 1 cent to $0.51
• Postcard stamps will cost $0.36, a 1 cent increase

The PRC will review the proposed Mailing Services and International Shipping Services price changes before they go into effect later this month. Complete USPS rate charts are available on the PRC and Postal Service websites.

While increasing rates, the Postal Service states that it will remain competitive and continue providing affordable mail and package delivery without tax dollars. The new prices aim to boost revenue to cover growing operating costs.

“The governors believe these new rates will keep the Postal Service competitive while providing the agency with needed revenue,” the USPS said in a statement.

Unlike some other shippers, the Postal Service does not add surcharges for fuel, residential delivery or regular Saturday delivery. The Postal Service also receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.