USPS Forever stamps remain a popular way to handle standard first class postage, and in 2025 the pricing and rules continue to evolve. This overview explains the 2025 pricing, usage rules, and how Forever stamps compare with other options.
Understanding the latest rates helps you avoid last minute trips to the post office and keeps your mailing budget predictable throughout the year.
| ItemType | Price (2025) | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forever Stamp (1 oz first class) | $0.66 | 1 oz letter | Adjusts automatically for future rate changes |
| Additional Ounce (each) | $0.28 | Per extra ounce | Applied after the first ounce is covered |
| Postcard (Nonprofits) | $0.63 | Standard postcard | Lower rate for nonprofit promotional mail |
| International First Class Letter (up to 1 oz) | $1.60 | 1 oz envelope | Prices vary by destination and may include additional fees |
| Priority Mail 1 lb Flat Rate Box | $10.35 | Regional zones | Zone based pricing, delivery in 1–3 business days |
Current 2025 Pricing and Value of Forever Stamps
The price of a single Forever stamp in 2025 is $0.66, covering the cost of a one ounce first class letter. When rates increase in the future, older Forever stamps remain valid for the new rate, making them a hedge against price hikes.
Each additional ounce beyond the first on a standard letter costs $0.28, and this applies whether you use one Forever stamp or multiple stamps to cover the weight. For postcards, the nonprofit postcard rate is $0.63 and does not qualify as a Forever stamp, so plan accordingly for different mail types.
Where to Buy USPS Forever Stamps in 2025
You can purchase Forever stamps online, at local post offices, from retail partners, and through some banking and shipping locations. The United States Postal Service website and mobile app allow you to prepay postage and print labels at home, which is convenient for high volume or time sensitive mailings.
Retailers including grocery stores, office supply chains, and pharmacies often stock booklets of Forever stamps, and some locations offer the option to load postage value onto reusable plastic passes for faster checkout.
Using Forever Stamps for Different Mail Classes
Forever stamps are designed for standard USPS first class mail, but they can also be combined with additional postage for heavier letters, large envelopes, and small packages. You must add extra postage when the weight exceeds the coverage provided by the stamps you have.
International Considerations
Forever stamps do not cover international shipping by themselves. For letters going abroad, you must attach the correct current international postage, which varies by country and is typically higher than domestic rates.
2025 Rate Changes and What They Mean for You
Postal pricing adjusts annually based on a mix of operational costs and market factors. In 2025, the base first class letter rate rose to $0.66, which represents a modest change from prior years but reinforces the value of locking in Forever stamps at current prices when possible.
Understanding these adjustments helps you budget for shipping costs, negotiate postage budgets for small businesses, and decide when to buy larger quantities of Forever stamps versus using digital shipping options.
Key Takeaways for Using USPS Forever Stamps in 2025
- Price of a Forever stamp in 2025 is $0.66 for a one ounce first class letter.
- Each additional ounce beyond the first requires $0.28 in extra postage.
- Forever stamps automatically adjust to future rate increases, preserving their value.
- Postcards and international mail have separate rates and are not covered by Forever stamps.
- Buy stamps in advance of known rate hikes to lock in lower prices.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I use older Forever stamps after the 2025 price increase?
Yes, Forever stamps purchased in previous years remain valid and cover the current first class one ounce rate, even after price changes.
How do I calculate postage for a letter weighing 2 ounces in 2025?
Cover the first ounce with one Forever stamp at $0.66 and add one additional ounce stamp or equivalent postage for the second ounce at $0.28.
Do Forever stamps expire or lose value over time?
No, Forever stamps do not expire and always equal the current one ounce first class letter price regardless of when they were purchased.
Are Forever stamps valid for postcard mailing in 2025?
No, because postcards have a lower nonprofit rate of $0.63, while Forever stamps are priced at the first class letter rate of $0.66.