The price of mailing a standard letter in the United States depends on its weight, size, destination, and the type of postage you use. For most everyday correspondence, a one-ounce envelope requires one First-Class Mail Forever stamp.
USPS rates changed during 2025. From January 19 through July 12, a standard one-ounce letter cost 73 cents to mail. Beginning July 13, the price increased to 78 cents. A Forever stamp bought before the increase remains valid for mailing a standard letter after the rate change.
The postage cost is only part of the calculation. An oversized envelope, a thick invitation, extra pages, or international delivery may require additional postage. Measuring and weighing the envelope before buying stamps helps prevent returned mail or delivery delays.
A regular one-ounce letter sent within the United States costs 78 cents under the USPS rates effective July 13, 2025. This generally covers a rectangular envelope that meets standard letter dimensions and can pass through automated processing equipment.
Before July 13, the same letter cost 73 cents. If you purchased Forever stamps at the earlier price, you do not need to add a 5-cent stamp. Forever postage is designed to remain valid for the current price of a one-ounce First-Class Mail letter.
Letters weighing more than one ounce need additional postage. Under the July 2025 pricing, each additional ounce costs 29 cents. For example, a two-ounce letter requires 78 cents for the first ounce plus 29 cents for the second ounce, for a total of $1.07.
A letter can also require extra postage if it is unusually rigid, square, lumpy, or difficult for sorting machines to process. The nonmachinable surcharge is 49 cents under the July 2025 rates. Wedding invitations, wax-sealed envelopes, and bulky greeting cards are common examples.
The following figures apply to common domestic and international mailing options after the July 13, 2025, USPS price adjustment. Prices can change when the Postal Service announces a new rate schedule.
| Mailing option | 2025 price from July 13 |
|---|---|
| First-Class letter, first ounce | $0.78 |
| Each additional letter ounce | $0.29 |
| Nonmachinable surcharge | $0.49 |
| Domestic postcard | $0.56 |
| International letter, first ounce | $1.70 |
| International postcard | $1.70 |
A domestic postcard does not use the same postage as a letter. Its smaller, lighter format qualifies for the postcard rate, provided it meets USPS size and thickness rules. Oversized or unusually shaped postcards may be charged as letters.
For international mail, the price depends on the service and destination. A regular one-ounce letter or postcard sent abroad costs $1.70 under the July 2025 rates. Extra weight, merchandise, or tracking can move the item into a different service category.
Post offices remain the most reliable place to purchase current stamps, weigh an envelope, and confirm the correct postage. Many locations also offer self-service kiosks for stamps and mailing services outside regular counter hours.
Retailers such as CVS, Staples, grocery stores, and some pharmacies may sell Forever stamps. Availability varies by location, and some stores sell stamps only in booklets. For a useful comparison of purchasing options, see where to buy Forever stamps at post offices, CVS, and Staples.
Online postage providers can print labels or postage from home, which is convenient for businesses and people who mail frequently. However, online services may add handling charges, subscription fees, or restrictions that do not apply when buying stamps directly from USPS.
When buying postage online or at a retail counter, use a payment method that will not create unexpected fees. Consumers using prepaid cards should check their balance and transaction rules first; guidance on prepaid card cash-out options may be helpful when managing funds before a purchase.
Do not place a standard stamp on an envelope that is too thick or heavy and assume it will be accepted. USPS may return underpaid mail, collect the balance from the recipient, or delay delivery while the correct postage is obtained.
For a simple personal letter, budgeting 78 cents is generally enough in the second half of 2025. Check the envelope’s weight and shape, apply the appropriate postage, and verify the latest USPS rate before sending important or time-sensitive mail.
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