Rising Postage Rates Enhance Appeal of the "Forever Stamp"

You can now count postage among the many things that have fallen victim to rising costs. The U.S. Postal Service postage rates have risen two cents, from 42 cents to 44 cents, as of Monday. When the USPS announced the rise in February, they stated that it was necessary due to rising production costs.

While it seems odd to think that the economy and current trends could have a long-standing effect on something as fundamental as the mail, think again. According to the Associated Press, this third year of raised rates is an attempt to keep the post office afloat. Due to the effects of the Internet and email as well as the recession, the Postal Service lost $2.8 billion last year and has lost $2.3 billion only halfway through this year.

And the postal rates may not be the only things that change. The Associated Press reported that Postmaster General John Potter has asked Congress to allow the Postal Service to limit mail delivery to five days a week. Even with the rise in rates, the post office could very well run out of money before the end of this fiscal year.

Other USPS changes include:

A postcard stamp increase of 1 cent to 28 cents.

The first ounce of a large envelope increase of 5 cents to 88 cents.

The first ounce of a parcel increase of 5 cents to $1.22.

International postcard and letter prices are, for one ounce, 75 cents to Canada; 79 cents to Mexico; and 98 cents elsewhere.

What seems to be the redeeming factor in all of these changes is the long heralded "Forever Stamp." The beloved stamp of newsletters and brides-to-be, the "Forever Stamp" does not have a fixed price, allowing individuals to use them at any time. Granted, they cost the same as the current price for First Class stamps, but they will be honored no matter when they're used.

The "Forever Stamp" was first introduced to the public in April 2007, in order to "ease the transition during price changes" according to the USPS. Before their inception, if you had old stamps, you had to go through the hassle of purchasing 1 or 2-cent stamps in order to send mail. Either that or customers simply never used them after the prices changed.

If you're like me and are forgetful and don't send letters all that often, the "Forever Stamp" is a great benefit. Because of them, I purchase my stamps once and am able to use them at any time without having to worry about replenishing my stock of 1 and 2-cent stamps.

Before the price changes, I'm certain that thousands ran out to buy the "Forever Stamp" in order to save some money. Indeed, it is a smart move. If you buy several month's worth at a time, it's likely that you'll be saving in the end. And while some may say "What's the point of saving a few cents?" in this economy, I'm sure it can't hurt.

New Postage Rates in Effect, UPI.com

Peel 'Em and Weep: First-Class Stamps Rise 2 Cents, Associated Press

Forever Stamp Fact Sheet, USPS.com