You might have read the earlier post about my thought that the postal rate was going to be increased. Well I can now say that this information is confirmed.
The postal service released an announcement late yesterday that stated that there will in fact be an increase in first class stamps and other postage starting in May, on May 11th to be exact.
This does give you time to stock up on the forever stamp to save money. The Forever stamps can be used as first class postage at any time, even for future increases. Right now, you’ll pay the current postal rate of 42 cents.
So what are the details of the postal price increase?
First class stamps will rise 2 cents to be 44 cents. The postal service estimates that this increase will cost the average family only $3 extra a year.
The postcard stamp will rise 1 cent to be 28 cents.
The first ounce of a large envelope will rise 5 cents to be 88 cents.
The first ounce of a parcel will rise 5 cents to be $1.22
A postcard to Canada will rise to be 75 cents.
A postcard to Mexico will rise to be 79 cents.
A postcard internationally to countries other than Canada or Mexico will rise to be 98 cents.
There will be no changes for shipping service (those already increased last month).
The post office has been suffering financially. It has asked Congress to allow mail to be delivered for five days a week instead of six days a week. I am a big fan of the post office, and I think that 44 cents to send a letter anywhere in the country is still a bargain. However, there are ways to save here, such as sending postcards instead of letters, paying bills online, and taking advantage of e-mail.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.
Favorite Deal Websites:
Related Articles:
Postal Rate Increase Coming and How to Save
Do Those Book Reward Programs Really Pay?
Paper Back Swap vs The Library