Forever Stamps- Cost of Postage, Where to Buy
Old Liberty Bell USPS Stamps Immune to New Postal Rate Increases
May 9, 2009
The article Historical First Class Stamp Price Increases offered a brief snapshot of historical postage rates from 1885 to 2008 as well as a look at an upcoming postage stamp rate increase. Learn how old Forever stamps are immune to future first class stamp price increases.
How Much Does a Forever Stamp Cost? What Happens When Stamp Prices Increase?
The Forever stamp is to be sold at the prevailing first class postage rate, and its value will always match the current price of first class postage. This means that consumers may purchase the stamp at one rate and use it to send first class mail when the future rate is higher, saving money in the process. An added benefit is that it eliminates the pesky task of purchasing one- or two-cent stamps when the cost of first class stamps rises (in order to be able to use old stamps).
The Forever stamp made its debut on April 12, 2007 at a price of 41 cents. Regular first class stamps only cost 39 cents each on April 12, 2007; however, the two matched up when the price of first class stamps increased from 39 cents to 41 cents on May 14, 2007.
USPS 1st Class Stamp Rate Increases: Cost of Postage Will Continue to Go Up
Since the Forever stamp’s initial debut at 41 cents, the cost of first class postage has increased. The rate increased to 42 cents on May 12, 2008, and it is slated to increase to 44 cents on May 11, 2009.
When will stamp prices increase in the future? According to the United States Postal Service, the cost of first class stamps will go up annually in May.
Forever Stamp Design- United States Liberty Bell
The classic Forever stamp features the United States Liberty Bell by Tom Engeman, an artist who has created the artwork for several USPS stamp projects. The use of a common symbol recognizable by many Americans may mean that this will be the one and only design for years to come.
Where to Buy Forever Stamps- Purchase Postage at Grocery Stores, Post Office, Online
Many grocery stores in the United States carry first class stamps; however, they are not typically displayed in plain sight. Oftentimes, cashiers will have them at the checkout counter, or they might be available at customer service. All a customer needs to do is ask the cashier if the store carries USPS postage stamps; if it does, the customer should be able to purchase them during regular checkout.
Here are other places to buy stamps:
- Postal contract stations– these mini postal service locations are found at business locations like gas stations or mailing service companies.
- Post office locations– purchase stamps at the counter or in the lobby at a postage dispenser.
- Retail outlets– includes locations like drug or convenience stores.
Stamps can also be purchased online at usps.com or by phone (1-800-STAMP-24).
For related information, see the following articles:
U.S. Postal Service First Class Mail – This article details package sizes and weight limits for this popular shipping method.
44 Cent First Class Postage Stamps – Learn about the stamp rate increase to 44 cents on May 11, 2009 and of the seven stamp designs of the new denomination. Also find out when to expect new postal rates each year.
Resources:
United States Postal Service (USPS) website
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