For years, Forever Stamps have been one of the most reliable and convenient ways to mail letters in the United States.
But as postal rates continue to rise, many people wonder how these Forever Stamp price increases affect their everyday mailing habits — and what they mean for stamp collectors.
Whether you buy stamps frequently, save them for later, or collect them as part of a philatelic hobby, understanding these price changes can help you save money and make smarter choices.
In this guide, we’ll break down what the latest price increase means, why USPS raises rates, and how both collectors and regular mailers can benefit.
Why Do Forever Stamp Prices Increase?
Forever Stamp prices rise whenever the USPS adjusts its First-Class Mail rate. These rate changes occur for several reasons:
- Rising transportation and operational costs
Fuel, delivery vehicles, sorting equipment, and workforce needs affect postal expenses.
- Decline in first-class mail volume
As more communication shifts online, USPS must adjust prices to cover revenue losses.
- Inflation and economic conditions
General inflation drives higher costs in nearly every industry — including mail delivery.
- Modernization and service improvements
USPS invests in new vehicles, sorting technology, and infrastructure upgrades.
Because Forever Stamps always match the current First-Class Mail rate, their price automatically increases whenever USPS raises postage rates.
Forever Stamp Price Increases Over the Years
The most recent Forever Stamp price increase took effect on July 13, 2025.
On this date, the USPS raised the First-Class Mail rate from $0.73 to $0.78, marking a 5-cent increase.
Here’s a quick look at how much Forever Stamp prices have changed:
2007 $0.41 (first issue)
2015 $0.49
2019 $0.55
2022 $0.60
2023 $0.66
2024 $0.68
2025 $0.78 (current rate)
As you can see, the price has nearly doubled since 2007 – but the purchasing power of Forever Stamps makes them more valuable over time.
If you send international mails, it’s worth noting that Global Forever stamp prices have gone up by $0.60 – from $1.10 in 2013 to $1.70 in 2025.
What Forever Stamp Price Increases Mean for Regular Mailers
If you send bills, greeting cards, invitations, or personal letters, you may feel frustrated when rates go up. But Forever Stamps still offer big benefits:
- They protect you from future rate hikes
Buy them today at a lower price — use them anytime in the future, even if rates keep going up.
- They simplify mailing
No need to calculate extra postage or buy 1¢ or 2¢ stamps when rates increase.
- Buying in bulk saves money
Every future price hike makes your older Forever Stamps more valuable.
- Seasonal mailers benefit the most
If you send holiday cards, wedding invitations, or large batches of mail, stockpiling Forever Stamps ahead of time can save hundreds of dollars.
In short, Forever Stamps turn rising rates into long-term savings for everyday mailers.
What the Price Increase Means for Stamp Collectors
For philatelists, a Forever Stamp price increase is more than just a USPS update – it’s an opportunity.
- Older Forever Stamps gain value
A stamp purchased at $0.41 in 2007 is now worth $0.78.
This rise makes unused Forever Stamps more desirable among collectors.
- Special editions become more collectible
Stamps with limited print runs (holiday, commemorative, or themed issues) become even more valuable as their face value rises with each rate hike.
- Complete-year sets appreciate over time
Collectors who build annual Forever Stamp collections see steady value growth.
- Price changes mark historical periods
Every USPS rate change reflects economic trends, making these stamps part of America’s financial narrative.
- Investment potential rises
Bulk sheets bought before rate increases become long-term assets.
For collectors, a postage rate hike is not a burden – it’s a value boost.
Should You Buy Forever Stamps Before the Price Goes Up?
Yes – absolutely.
Buying stamps before a rate increase means:
- You pay less today
- Your stamps gain value tomorrow
- You avoid scrambling during price change announcements
- You build a useful stockpile for future mailing needs
For example:
A $0.41 Forever Stamp purchased in 2007 is now worth $0.78 – nearly double.
Tips for Smart Buying Before a Price Increase
- Buy multiple books or rolls at once – You’ll save more over time.
- Focus on popular designs – Flag stamps, holiday stamps, and commemoratives retain value better.
- Store stamps properly – Use stamp albums, envelopes, or plastic sleeves to prevent damage.
- Consider collecting full sheets – Sheets often become more valuable than individual stamps.
How to Stay Updated on Future Price Changes
USPS announces rate adjustments via:
- USPS Postal Bulletin
- USPS News Releases
- Online notifications
- Stamp collector forums
- Philatelic websites
Staying updated helps you buy at the right time and avoid higher costs later.
Conclusion: Forever Stamps Still Offer the Best Value
Even with regular price increases, Forever Stamps remain the smartest and most cost-effective way to send mail.
They protect against inflation, increase in value over time, and offer tremendous benefits to collectors and everyday users alike.
- For mailers, buying early saves money.
- For collectors, rising values make stamps more desirable.
- For everyone, Forever Stamps continue to be a reliable investment.
