Current Stamp Price: What Stamps Cost in 2026
The current stamp price is $0.82
As of July 12, 2026, a First-Class Forever stamp costs $0.82. That covers a standard letter up to one ounce mailed anywhere in the United States. USPS raised the rate from $0.78 in its July 2026 adjustment, continuing the roughly once-a-year increases of recent years.
Current USPS stamp prices at a glance
| Mailing need | Stamp | Current price |
|---|---|---|
| Letter, 1 oz | Forever | $0.82 |
| Each extra ounce | Additional Ounce | $0.29 |
| Letter, 2 oz | Two Ounce | $1.11 |
| Letter, 3 oz | Three Ounce | $1.40 |
| Domestic postcard | Postcard | $0.65 |
| International letter, 1 oz | Global | $1.75 |
A book of 20 Forever stamps runs $16.40; see the full breakdown of what a book of stamps costs. For older denominated stamps and collectible values, use our current stamp values chart.
Why stamp prices keep rising
USPS adjusts First-Class rates under a regulatory formula tied to inflation plus additional authority granted by the Postal Regulatory Commission. In practice that has meant an increase most years, sometimes two. Declining letter volume spreads fixed delivery costs across less mail, which keeps upward pressure on the price of a stamp even as USPS cuts costs elsewhere.
How to pay less than the current stamp price
Two practical angles. First, buy Forever stamps before announced increases take effect: they stay valid at the new rate forever, so buying ahead is a small guaranteed discount. Second, discounted postage exists on the secondary market, where unused stamps sell below face value. That market works both ways: if you’re holding stamps you’ll never use, they’re worth real money. We pay cash for unused postage; see how selling your stamps works.
Quick answers
What is the current price of a stamp? $0.82 for a First-Class Forever stamp, effective July 12, 2026.
Did stamp prices go up in 2026? Yes, from $0.78 to $0.82 on July 12, 2026, and USPS has signaled further increases in 2027.
Are my old Forever stamps still valid? Yes, every Forever stamp covers today’s full letter rate no matter when you bought it.
Can I sell stamps I don’t need? Yes. Unused stamps hold value and can be sold for cash.