Ah, stamps. Those tiny, sticky squares of history, patriotism, and the occasional cartoon character. They’ve helped us send love letters, birthday cards, tax returns, and that one thank-you note we swear we sent (Grandma, if you’re reading this—we’re sorry!).

Well, hold onto your envelopes, because postage rates officially went up—and here’s what it costs to send mail right now in August 2025.

 

USPS Current Postage Rates (August 2025)

First-Class Mail Forever Stamp: $0.78

Send a standard 1-ounce letter anywhere in the U.S. for 78 cents. If you stocked up on Forever stamps before the hike, you’re still good to go—no need to add extra postage.

Metered Mail (1 oz): $0.74

This is what businesses or at-home postage machines pay—slightly cheaper than a Forever stamp, but still up from earlier rates.

Domestic Postcards: $0.61

Whether it’s a quick hello from vacation or a vintage-style birthday card, sending a postcard now costs 61 cents.

International Letters & Postcards (1 oz): $1.70

Mailing overseas? A single ounce of love or business correspondence costs $1.70.

Additional Ounces (on letters): $0.29 per ounce

Writing long letters or adding extra inserts? Each additional ounce will cost you 29 cents.

Stamp Smart: A Quick Example

Let’s say you’re mailing a 2-ounce wedding invitation:

  • First ounce: $0.78

  • Additional ounce: $0.29

  • Total: $1.07

Still cheaper than streaming your cousin’s band’s album. And way more elegant.

Planning Ahead

The USPS is expected to continue twice-a-year rate increases through 2027—usually in January and July. So now’s a good time to:

  • Stock up on Forever stamps

  • Re-check your postage budget (especially if you’re a small business)

  • Get ahead on your holiday cards—yes, already!

Is Snail Mail Still Worth It?

Absolutely. In a world of emojis and instant messages, a real piece of mail is felt. It doesn’t just get read—it gets remembered. A 78-cent stamp says: You’re worth more than a text.

Final Thoughts

Postage rates may have gone up, but the value of meaningful mail never goes out of style. So grab that stamp, seal the envelope, and send a little joy the old-fashioned way.

Because inboxes get crowded—but a mailbox? That’s where the magic lands.