USPS to increase postage costs, the third hike within a year

For the second time in less than six months and the third time within a year, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is raising the price of mailing services.

Beginning July 9, the new rates include a three-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp, from 63 cents to 66 cents. The USPS claimed the increase of approximately 5.4% is meant “to offset the rise in inflation.”

The price for 1-ounce metered mail will increase to 63 cents, and the price to send a domestic postcard will increase to 51 cents. A 1-ounce letter mailed to another country would increase to $1.50. There will be no change to the single-piece letter and flat additional-ounce price, which remains at 24 cents.

The USPS added it was seeking price adjustments for Special Services products including Certified Mail, Post Office Box rental fees, money order fees and the cost to purchase insurance when mailing an item.