US Postal Service Announces Rate Increase
First Class Postage Rates Increase to $0.44
The rate increase will be two cents for a first class stamp. That brings the cost of first class postage to $0.44. There will be no change in the additional ounce rate of $0.17 per ounce. The USPS estimates this increase will cost the average American and additional $3.00 per year in postage.
There is a way to not pay the increase in postage. Forever stamps can be purchased at today's rates. Forever stamps are first class stamps that have no postal denomination printed on them. If purchased prior to May 11, 2009 the cost will be $0.42 per stamp. After the rate increase, the forever stamp will cost $0.44 each. These stamps can be used after May 11th with no additional charge and can be used indefinitely. This is one way to beat the increase. Start purchasing forever stamps now at current pricing, so that come May you can mail your letters at today's rates. Not everything can be sent electronically. There are times that a stamp is required. Those of us who plan on using stamps after May 2009, should look into purchasing the forever stamps prior to the price increase.
Even thought the rate increase is necessary, the USPS states it offers top quality service at bargain pricing. Postmaster General John Potter stated "even with the increases, the Postal Service continues to offer some of the lowest postage prices in the world". Furthermore, the Post Office states that it has been elected the most trusted government agency for the fifth year in a row.
Prices for shipping services like Express and Priority Mail will not change. These services saw an increase in January and will not be affected by this rate hike. However, other services will see a rate increase. According to the US Post Office we should expect to see an increase in first class postage every May. Rising operational costs as well as inflation are the reason given for this rate increase.
Here is a list of rate increases to occur on May 11, 2009: First Class Letters (first ounce) $0.44; Large Envelopes (first ounce) $0.88; Parcels (first ounce) $1.22. There is no change to the fee for additional ounces on First Class Mail. That rate remains at $0.17 per ounce for each additional ounce above the first ounce.
sources:
USPS Press Release, February 10, 2009, Postal Service Mailing Services Pricing to Change May 11, 2009.
Published by Lynda Altman
Lynda Altman is a freelance writer, blogger and researcher. Her experience includes published print articles in Family Chronicle Magazine, writing and researching for private clients, and writing online cont... View profile
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- Postal rates for first class mail are increasing as of May 11, 2009.
- The additional ounce rate will not change.
- Fees for services that were increased in January will not see an additional increase.