#postage rate hike

[mudwerks]

(via Stamp price increase 2023: USPS proposes July postage stamps hike)

there goes my budget, this is easily gonna cost me 2 or 3 bucks a year extra...

[sgt-tombstone]

When Johnny asked Simon to come home with him on leave, he had never expected… this.

Johnny’s flat in Glasgow was a tiny thing, barely large enough to fit one, much less two massive soldiers. They made it work well enough, as long as neither of them minded being constantly wrapped up in each other, always within reach, and neither of them did. Their last mission had gone to hell in a heartbeat, and the 141 were lucky to be alive; Price had sent them all home on mandated medical leave, and Simon and Johnny were taking full advantage of the time off base to reacquaint themselves with each other being present and tangible and alive.

That didn’t change the fact, though, that his flat was only slightly larger than a postage stamp, which was fine for a few days, but he had sensed Simon getting antsy, feeling caged in, and had suggested visiting his parents for a couple of days, if only to get out of the house. It wouldn’t be any less oppressive—the MacTavish family was massive and overbearing on the best of days—but it would offer some reprieve from the near-constant contact and the stifling city.

Which was how Johnny found himself staring down at his lieutenant, his partner, curled up on his back on his parents’ couch, fast asleep, a green dinosaur stuffed animal clutched against his chest.

It didn’t look particularly comfortable; Simon was too tall, his legs too long, to be able to stretch out completely, so his knees were hiked up, his socked feet flat against the cushioned armrest. His neck was at an odd angle, resulting in his chin nearly touching his own shoulder, his unmasked cheek squished slightly where it was pressed against the leather. And the stuffed animal…

Johnny had bought it as a gift for one of his nephews, a toddling bairn who had struggled with nightmares, and the shopkeep who sold it to him had assured him that the little beads in the dinosaur’s tummy would provide enough weight to be a comfort without being dangerous. Evidently, his nephew had taken one look at Simon Riley and decided that the scarred soldier needed it more than he did.

Both of Simon’s arms were wrapped around the soft toy, squishing it against his chest, rising and falling with every slow, deep breath. He looked at peace in a way that Johnny hadn’t seen him look in a long time. They had spent the day surrounded by fussing family members and babbling children, their attentions split between warm homemade meals and whatever trinkets had caught the toddlers’ interest. Johnny would’ve felt bad; he was long used to his family’s antics, had grown up surrounded by siblings and cousins and extended relatives. But Simon had taken to it like a duck to water, effortlessly shifting focus from one person to another, treating each with equal sincerity and devotion, the same way he did in the field. It had been a delight to watch, especially when his mam and sisters had taken advantage of Simon’s distraction to shoot Johnny knowing glances.

“Gonna stand there all night, sergeant?”

Johnny startled, not enough to move, but enough to send his heart rate skyrocketing. He recovered quickly though, too well trained to do anything else. Simon hadn’t moved, hadn’t even opened his eyes, and it would’ve unnerved him if he hadn’t spent the last two years cementing himself as a permanent fixture in Simon’s life and, therefore, becoming incredibly used to his partner’s uncanny sense of perception. Even, apparently, while asleep.

“Just wonderin’ if Gaz’d ever believe me if I told him, sir.”

“Take a picture,” Simon grumbled, his voice deep with sleep. “It’ll last longer.”

Johnny snorted a quiet laugh, already imagining the look on his fellow sergeant’s face. He didn’t pull his phone out, though, just like Simon knew he wouldn’t. These moments were for the two of them alone, raw and bare and soft.

“Let’s go to bed, love,” he whispered, reaching out to run his hand through Simon’s hair. It was tangled from the grasping of tiny, fisted fingers throughout the day (Johnny’s nephews had never seen blond hair before and, as such, had been absolutely enraptured by Simon’s head of golden hair), and he didn’t mention the way Simon pushed into his hand, seeking touch and warmth like a cat. He also didn’t mention the way Simon continued to hug the stuffed animal to his chest as he unfurled his long legs, stretching slightly, his knees popping, before drawing himself up to his usual towering height. His eyes were half-lidded with sleep, soft in a way he rarely allowed himself to be, the green dinosaur tucked safely in his arms as he followed Johnny upstairs.

In a week, they will be back on base, back to their tactical gear and their sidearms and their razor-sharp focus. They will be shipped out to some foreign soil, either sweltering heat or numbing cold, either dry deserts or soaking rainforests, and blood will be spilled, probably their own, definitely their enemy’s. They will once again be hardened soldiers, products of war, and there will be no room for such softness. Which was why Johnny reveled in the way Simon curled around him now, in a bed two sizes too small for two muscular men, a warm blanket blocking out the worst of the Scottish chill, a green weighted dinosaur stuffed animal clutched in two massive arms against an equally massive chest.

He tucked his nose against the nape of his partner’s neck, one arm thrown over Simon’s hip, and drifted off to the quiet sound of breathing, of comfort, of peace.

[allthecanadianpolitics]

Canada Post is proposing an increase to regulated postage rates next year, bringing the price of most stamps up by 25 cents to $1.24. The organization says it has kept letter mail rate increases to a minimum over the past decade and the one-time increase would help align stamp prices with the rising cost of providing the service. Stamp prices were last increased in 2023, when the cost of a stamp rose by seven cents. Canada Post says letter mail volumes have decreased by 60 per cent over the past two decades, while the number of addresses to serve has gone up. In a press release, the Crown corporation says Canadian households received an average of seven letters per week in 2006. Today, households only receive an average of two letters per week.

Continue Reading

Tagging: @newsfromstolenland

[copperbadge]

Book Price Drop!

Well, that was almost comically easy. 

Turns out, to pull my books from "global distribution” I really just need to uncheck a box and then manually adjust the price. They may still appear on other sites for a while, I’m not sure how that works, but they are now officially retailed only through Lulu.com.

The epubs, because those aren’t subject to the same fees, will remain the same price; they will also still be available through other retailers. Someone sent me an ask about epubs and Kindle which I will publish that when I get a hot second, but fortunately the epubs and print books aren’t married to each other and can go their separate ways. 

Anyway, below are links and price drops; they’re in USD, but the prices should have fallen internationally, I adjusted every currency downwards. These are just for the books, without tax or postage included.  

Fete For A King: $13 to $11

Infinite Jes: $13 to $11

The Lady And The Tiger: $13 to $11

The Shivadh Romances Omnibus, Paperback: $29 to $20

The Shivadh Romances Omnibus, Hardcover: $52 to $30

The Twelve Points of Caleb Canto: $19 to $13

If you’re new and would like to read these but are perplexed about what to buy, the books are listed above in chronological order; the “Omnibus” editions are just single-volume reprints of the first three books, and Twelve Points is the fourth book in the series. As always, you can find my entire published ouvre, print and epub, here.

Six Harvests was also under Global Distribution but I think because it was before this rate hike, it didn’t have the mandatory minimum the others did. I’ve pulled it from Global anyway but the price hasn’t dropped, because it was already priced appropriately. The rest of the print books aren’t in global distribution anyway, so they stayed the same. Over the next year I may do a bit of an overhaul to get everything up to style-guide standard, and if that happens the prices may change, but I’ll warn before I do it so if the prices go up people can buy the cheaper versions. 

I feel disproportionately relieved. I didn’t realize just how much annoyance I was carrying around over the pricing of these books. It doesn’t feel like $2 should make much of a difference, but that $22 price drop on the hardcover omnibus was like letting a couple of lead weights fall off my shoulders. 

Again, you guys have my sincerest apologies for this; if I had realized what was causing the spike sooner I absolutely would have fixed it, and if I’d known when I published them I wouldn’t have done it to begin with. Going forward the pricing should be marginally more reasonable :) And on that note, I am working currently to get the short story anthology out by late August, so stay tuned! 

[trackvirtualstamp]

How to Buy Forever Stamps in 2024: Current Cost and Best Purchasing Tips

In an era where digital communication reigns supreme, the traditional act of mailing letters and packages continues to hold its ground. One of the most convenient ways to send mail is by using Forever Stamps. These stamps, issued by the United States Postal Service (USPS), allow you to send a one-ounce letter regardless of future price increases. If you're wondering how to buy Forever Stamps in 2024, this guide will walk you through the current cost, where to purchase them, and tips to make your buying experience seamless.

Current Cost of Forever Stamps in 2024

As of 2024, the price for a Forever Stamp is $0.66. This price allows you to send a standard one-ounce letter anywhere within the United States. It's essential to note that while the cost of Forever Stamps can increase over time, the stamp's value remains valid for mailing a one-ounce letter, no matter when you purchase it. Therefore, buying Forever Stamps is a smart choice for those who frequently send mail, as it protects against future postage hikes.

Where to Buy Forever Stamps

Finding a reliable place to buy Forever Stamps is crucial for ensuring you have them on hand when needed. Here are some of the best options:

USPS Retail Locations: The most straightforward way to purchase Forever Stamps is by visiting your local post office. USPS locations are widespread, and you'll find a range of stamp options, including booklets and rolls.

Online at USPS.com: For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, you can easily order Forever Stamps through the USPS website. This option allows you to buy stamps from the comfort of your home and have them shipped directly to your door.

Third-Party Retailers: Many retail chains and grocery stores sell Forever Stamps. Stores like Walmart, Target, and even some pharmacies often have a small selection of stamps available at the customer service desk or checkout.

Stamp Collectors and Auctions: If you're looking for unique or collectible Forever Stamps, consider checking online auction sites or stamp collector shops. While these may be pricier, they can provide rare designs not available through standard retail.

Best Purchasing Tips

To ensure you get the best value when buying Forever Stamps in 2024, consider these tips:

Buy in Bulk: If you frequently mail letters, consider purchasing stamps in bulk. USPS offers discounts for larger quantities, making it a cost-effective solution for regular mailers.

Watch for Promotions: Occasionally, USPS and other retailers may run promotions that can save you money on stamp purchases. Keep an eye on seasonal sales, especially during holidays or major mailing events.

Use Online Resources: Websites like Stamps.com or other postage solutions often provide insights on current postal rates and can offer additional purchasing options for bulk stamps.

Check for Updates: Always stay informed about changes in postal rates and policies. The USPS regularly updates its prices, and knowing when these changes occur can help you time your purchases better.

Consider Digital Solutions: If you're looking for a more modern approach, consider using online postage services. These platforms allow you to purchase postage online, print it, and avoid the need for physical stamps altogether.

Conclusion

Buying Forever Stamps in 2024 is straightforward and offers a great way to manage your mailing needs without worrying about future price increases. With a current cost of $0.66 per stamp, these stamps provide lasting value for anyone who regularly sends mail. By knowing where to buy and utilizing smart purchasing strategies, you can ensure you always have Forever Stamps ready to go, making your mailing experience as smooth as possible.

SITES WE SUPPORT

Track Virtual Stamp – ​​​Wix

[isfeed]

Canada Post proposes 25-cent price hike for stamps in 2025

Canada Post is proposing an increase to regulated postage rates next year, bringing the price of most stamps up by 25 cents to $1.24. Source: CP24 Canada Post proposes 25-cent price hike for stamps in 2025

[sriperundevivaradha]

Budgeting for your Wedding at Sriperundevivaradha ; Tips And Tricks

Planning a wedding is a joyous yet challenging task, especially when it comes to managing the expenses. A well-thought-out budget is essential to ensure that your special day is both memorable and financially manageable. Sriperundevivaradha stands out as one of the best marriage hall in Sriperumbudur, offering a perfect blend of elegance and affordability.

Here are some practical tips and tricks for budgeting your wedding at Sriperundevivaradha:

CHOOSE THE RIGHT VENUE

Book Early: Secure the venue as soon as possible to avoid price hikes.

Consider Off-Season Dates: Prices can be significantly lower during non-peak seasons.

Negotiate: Don’t hesitate to discuss rates and inclusions.

LIMIT THE GUEST LIST

Keep It Intimate: Invite close friends and family to cut down on costs.

Send Digital Invites: Save on printing and postage by opting for electronic invitations.

SET A REALISTIC BUDGET

Discuss Priorities: Talk with your partner and families to understand what's most important.

Create a Spreadsheet: List all possible expenses, from venue to honeymoon.

Allocate Funds: Assign a maximum amount to each category.

DIY Decorations

Get Creative: Utilize DIY décor ideas from Pinterest or wedding blogs.

Local Markets: Source materials from local markets to save money.

OPT FOR LOCAL VENDORS

Catering: Choose local caterers who offer regional specialties.

Photographer and Videographer: Hire professionals from nearby to avoid travel costs.

SIMPLIFY THE MENU

Buffet Style: A buffet can be more economical than a plated meal.

Seasonal Ingredients: Use ingredients that are in season to reduce costs.

BORROW AND RENT

Attire: Rent wedding attire instead of buying new.

Decor and Equipment: Borrow decorations and equipment from friends or rent them.

CUT DOWN ON EXTRAS

Limit Alcohol: Offer a limited bar instead of a full open bar.

Entertainment: Opt for a DJ over a live band or use a curated playlist.

TRACK EXPENSES

Stay Organized: Use budgeting apps to keep track of spending.

Regular Reviews: Review your budget periodically and make adjustments if needed.

SEEK HELP FROM FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Skillful Contributions: Ask talented friends and family to contribute, such as baking the cake or arranging flowers.

CONCLUSION

Budgeting for your wedding at Sriperundevivaradha, the best marriage hall in Sriperumbudur requires careful planning and thoughtful decision making. By setting a realistic budget, prioritizing your expenses, and exploring cost-effective options, you can create a memorable and beautiful wedding without financial stress.

Sriperundevivaradha offers an exquisite venue that combines tradition with modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for your special day. Remember, the essence of a wedding lies in the joy and love shared with your loved ones, not in the extravagance. With these tips and tricks, you can achieve the perfect balance between elegance and affordability, ensuring a celebration that you and your guests will cherish forever. Happy planning!

[templatetobuystamps]

Should I Buy Stamps in Bulk?

Buying stamps in bulk can be a smart decision, depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are some key considerations to help you decide whether bulk purchasing is right for you:

Cost Savings

One of the primary advantages of buying stamps in bulk is cost savings. Postal services often offer discounts on large quantities of stamps, reducing the overall cost per stamp. This can be particularly beneficial for businesses or individuals who send a high volume of mail regularly.

Convenience

Purchasing stamps in bulk also provides the convenience of always having postage on hand. This is especially useful for businesses that need to send out invoices, promotional materials, or other correspondence without interruption. It saves time and effort, eliminating frequent trips to the post office or the inconvenience of running out of stamps at a critical moment.

Protection Against Price Increases

Postal rates tend to increase periodically. By buying stamps in bulk, you can lock in the current rate and protect yourself against future price hikes. This can be a significant advantage for budget-conscious individuals and businesses.

Efficiency for Large Mail Campaigns

For businesses engaged in marketing campaigns or those that regularly send out newsletters or promotional materials, bulk purchasing of stamps streamlines the process. It ensures that you are prepared for large mailings without the hassle of last-minute purchases.

Considerations for Personal Use

For individuals, the decision to buy stamps in bulk depends on how frequently they send mail. If you only send occasional letters or cards, a large quantity of stamps might last you a very long time. However, if you enjoy sending holiday cards, invitations, or thank-you notes, having a stockpile of stamps can be quite handy.

Storage and Management

When buying stamps in bulk, consider where and how you will store them. Stamps should be kept in a cool, dry place to prevent damage. Proper storage ensures that your investment remains intact and usable over time.

Customization and Special Stamps

If you have specific preferences for custom or commemorative stamps, bulk buying might limit your choices. These special stamps are often sold in limited quantities and may not be available for bulk purchase. Consider your preferences before committing to a large quantity of standard stamps.

In conclusion, buying stamps in bulk offers several benefits, including cost savings, convenience, and protection against price increases. However, it is essential to evaluate your mailing habits and storage capabilities to determine if bulk purchasing is the best option for you.

SITES WE SUPPORT

Template To Buy Stamps – ​​​Wix

[ronaldcwilliams]

The Complete Guide to USPS Forever Stamps

Sending mail remains a vital part of communication in today's fast-paced world. It is USPS's responsibility to ensure letters, packages, and parcels reach their intended destinations. The USPS Forever Stamps are a convenient and affordable way to send mail. We will discuss the benefits of using usps buy forever stamps, how to buy them, and various practical tips to maximize their value in this comprehensive guide.

What are USPS Forever Stamps?

Regardless of when the stamp was purchased or used, USPS Forever Stamps can be used to mail a one-ounce letter. In order to be a wise investment for individuals as well as businesses, Forever Stamps will always hold their value, even if postage rates increase in the future.

The advantages of using Forever Stamps

Cost-Effectiveness:

Forever Stamps have the advantage of being cost-effective. By purchasing them at the current postage rate, you're essentially "locking in" that price, even if rates increase in the future. This protects you from potential price hikes and gives you a stable option for sending mail.

Convenience:

This convenience saves time and effort for both occasional and frequent mailers. No matter when you purchase your Forever Stamps, you will always have the option of sending a standard one-ounce letter for no additional postage charge.

Flexibility:

The versatility of Forever Stamps makes them a great solution for a wide range of mailing needs, including letters, postcards, and small packages.

Forever Stamps: How to Purchase

Post Offices:

You can purchase Forever Stamps in person at a local USPS post office. Post offices typically keep Forever Stamps readily available, making it convenient for you to purchase them.

Available online:

Forever Stamps can be ordered online through the USPS website. It features a user-friendly interface where you can select the desired quantity and pay securely.

Dealers and retailers:

There are many retailers who sell USPS stamps, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and office supply stores, which often sell Forever Stamps.

Tips for Maximizing Forever Stamp Value

Bulk purchases:

Consider purchasing a roll or sheet of stamps to take advantage of bulk pricing when buying Forever Stamps in large quantities.

Forever Stamps should be used for all mail:

With Forever Stamps, you won't have to worry about additional postage for standard mail. Use them for all your mailing needs.

Ensure their safety:

Forever Stamps are valuable commodities, so it's crucial to store them in a safe, dry place to prevent damage.

Let's share the knowledge:

Share the benefits of Forever Stamps with your friends, family, and colleagues. They can also enjoy the convenience and cost savings they offer by using Forever Stamps.

In conclusion

Using usps stamps for sale, you can send mail without constantly checking postage rates, ensuring your messages and packages get to their destinations. You can get the most out of this valuable postal service offering when you understand its benefits and how to acquire them. Forever Stamps are a versatile and reliable choice for all your mailing needs, whether you send a lot or only occasionally. Make your mailings worry-free by investing in them today.

[whattheabcxyz]

2023-09-19

Singapore

WP's Sylvia Lim says banks should fully reimburse scam victims - "except in cases where the customer was fraudulent or grossly negligent, or the transaction involved cryptocurrency or international payments"

The $10 commemorative LKY coin may be legal tender, but no one here accepts it!

Toto jackpot shared by 4 winners - they got $3.2m each

Man who fatally slapped daughter, burnt her body then concealed her remains in a box for 5 years gets 21.5 years' jail - he's a druggie

MAS records highest civil penalties for financial crimes in latest enforcement report - crimes included market abuse cases, false trading, insider trading, disclosure-related breaches & money laundering

SingPost to hike postage rates yet again - standard regular local mail will now cost 64% more!!!

Man charged with laundering $150K linked to suspected scam proceeds

Technology

Blue-light glasses unlikely to alleviate eye strain - the placebo effect will continue to ensure gullible fools believers continue to use theirs tho'

Health

Chronic renal disease on the rise in Singapore

Nature

Extremely rare silvered langur spotted on tree in Clementi in 1st such sighting in Singapore - probably been forced out into the open due to the massive deforestation cum habitat loss happening here

Singapore: Policeman helps huge otter family safely cross road at Orchard - 🥰

Politics

Canada expels Indian diplomat as it claims India is behind Sikh leader's assassination

Transport

Seniors & students who are heavy public transport users urged to use cheaper monthly travel passes

Travel

^ Thailand’s best resort Rosewood Phuket targets affluent millennial jetsetters

[certifieduspsmail]

USPS Certified Mail Costs 2022

USPS is rolling out a series of price increases that will go into effect on July 10th. This mid-year price update is a bit unusual since it comes after the typical annual rate change that happens at the beginning of each year.

The price increase for certified mail is one of the smaller hikes. However, it still makes a big difference to anyone that sends out any type of document or package via this service. For example, a 1-ounce metered letter will now cost 60 cents to send and a domestic postcard will be 48 cents to send. The new rates are also higher for additional ounces of mail and for international shipments.

In addition to the higher standard rate for certified mail, you will now pay more for a return receipt signature and for restricted delivery. The last one is important because it prevents the mail from being delivered to just anybody living at the address. Instead, it will only be delivered to the person that is specifically addressed for the piece of mail or their authorized agent.

The good news is that you will still save a significant amount of money when using a postage meter and taking advantage of USPS presort services for letters, flats, and postcards. In fact, using an automated solution like PostGrid will help you save even more by eliminating the labor costs associated with processing these pieces of mail.

The best way to reduce your certified mail costs is by simply opting out of the recipient’s signature. This is an option that has worked well for a number of businesses and can save you 28% on the standard rate for this type of mail.

SITES WE SUPPORT

Certified Usps Mail – Blogger

[uspstrackingchecker]

International Postage Rates 2022

As inflation continues to rise, the USPS is stepping up its rate hikes. It’s raising the price of first-class stamps from 60 cents to 63 cents, a 5% increase. It’s also increasing metered letter rates and International Business ReplyTMservice fees.

The United States Postal Service is a global provider of postal services to 190 countries and territories. The agency operates the world’s largest mail system, and offers a range of international shipping options.

Rates for international letters and packages — a cost-effective mail class that delivers mailpieces and small packages overseas in 6-10 days – have increased by an average of 3.7% over the past year, according to an industry analysis.

While the price increases are a financial concern for many businesses, the Postal Service said it is not expecting the extra costs to impact mail volume during peak holiday seasons. It also plans to introduce a temporary shipping rate increase on October 2 that will continue through January 22.

Despite the increase, USPS says it remains among the lowest-cost providers in the world. Its reliance on a low-cost model helps it generate revenue to offset its budget deficit.

The Postal Regulatory Commission will approve the new rates in December. If you’re a business with large mailing volumes, now is the time to prepare your postage budget for the changes ahead.

It’s also an important reminder to check that the item you plan to send to a foreign country is legal and not prohibited by the government of the destination country. Some goods aren’t allowed to be sent by the postal system, so it’s vital to ensure your message doesn’t get lost or rejected.

SITES WE SUPPORT

Usps Tracking Checker – ​​​Blogger

[kuizoku1986]

Post office stamp price hike comes into effect from Sunday - Darik News

The United States Postal Service announced the move last October, saying that the increase in postage rates is partly attributed to inflation. Stamps ... January 22, 2023 at 09:27PM Berwick Pennsylvania Brinklow Maryland Arena North Dakota Sedalia Missouri Mc Girk Missouri Robbins California Clark Pennsylvania Turner Arkansas Glenwood New York Sheldon Vermont Sweeden Kentucky Williston Tennessee https://unitedstatesvirtualmail.blogspot.com/2023/01/post-office-stamp-price-hike-comes-into.html January 23, 2023 at 01:05AM Avalon Mississippi Whitewater Indiana Bernice Louisiana Braidwood Illinois North Clymer New York Blue Hill Maine Mays Landing New Jersey New Canton Virginia Greenvale New York https://bakersfieldcaliforniamailbox.blogspot.com/2023/01/post-office-stamp-price-hike-comes-into.html January 23, 2023 at 01:37AM https://unitedstatescounselingcreditconsumer.blogspot.com/2023/01/post-office-stamp-price-hike-comes-into.html

[usacounselingcredit]

Post office stamp price hike comes into effect from Sunday - Darik News

The United States Postal Service announced the move last October, saying that the increase in postage rates is partly attributed to inflation. Stamps ... January 22, 2023 at 09:27PM Hammond Louisiana Ukiah California Dike Iowa Maryville Missouri Secretary Maryland Winchester Illinois Kinsey Alabama Edmundson Missouri Stevens Village Alaska Haymarket Virginia Newington Virginia Edwards Missouri https://unitedstatesvirtualmail.blogspot.com/2023/01/post-office-stamp-price-hike-comes-into.html January 23, 2023 at 01:05AM Gruver Texas Glens Fork Kentucky Fork South Carolina Astoria Oregon Lac La Belle Wisconsin Pomfret Center Connecticut Nason Illinois Roan Mountain Tennessee https://coloradovirtualmail.blogspot.com/2023/01/post-office-stamp-price-hike-comes-into.html January 23, 2023 at 02:41AM from https://youtu.be/GuUaaPaTlyY January 23, 2023 at 03:47AM

[trackvirtualstamp]

Forever Stamp Cost vs. Regular Stamps: Which Offers More Value?

When it comes to mailing letters and packages, understanding postage options is essential for cost-effective mailing. Among the various options available, Forever Stamps and regular stamps stand out, each with its unique features and benefits. This article will delve into the costs, value, and differences between Forever Stamps and regular stamps to help you make informed decisions for your mailing needs.

What are Forever Stamps?

Forever Stamps are a type of postage offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that can be used to send a standard letter, regardless of future price increases. Launched in 2007, Forever Stamps revolutionized the way people think about postage by allowing consumers to purchase stamps at a fixed price and use them indefinitely.

Current Cost of Forever Stamps

As of 2024, the cost of a Forever Stamp is $0.66. This price remains constant, regardless of any increases in postal rates. For example, if you buy a Forever Stamp today, you can use it even if the price of postage rises to $0.70 or higher in the future.

What are Regular Stamps?

Regular stamps, on the other hand, are traditional postage stamps that represent a specific value. These stamps must be purchased at the current postage rate and are subject to price increases. For example, if you buy a regular stamp for $0.66, that stamp will only be valid for mailing a letter at that price. If postage rates rise, you will need to purchase additional stamps to meet the new rate.

Comparing Costs

To evaluate which option offers more value, consider the following scenarios:

Buying Forever Stamps in BulkIf you frequently send letters, purchasing Forever Stamps in bulk can be a smart financial decision. By locking in the current price, you can save money over time as postal rates increase. For instance, buying 100 Forever Stamps at $0.66 will cost you $66.00, and you won’t need to worry about future rate hikes.

Using Regular Stamps for Infrequent MailingsIf you only send a few letters each year, purchasing regular stamps might be more practical. However, this approach requires you to stay updated on current postage rates, as you’ll need to buy new stamps if the rates increase. If you forget to check, you might find yourself underpaid on postage, resulting in delays or returns.

The Value Proposition

Convenience and SimplicityForever Stamps offer unparalleled convenience. You don’t have to worry about rate changes; they are a hassle-free solution for sending letters. This simplicity can be especially beneficial for busy individuals and small businesses that frequently mail correspondence.

Protection Against Price IncreasesWith the cost of postage rising periodically, Forever Stamps serve as a hedge against inflation in postal rates. By investing in Forever Stamps now, you can safeguard yourself from potential increases and ensure your letters are mailed without needing additional funds.

Gift and Collectible ValueForever Stamps also have a collectible aspect. Many people purchase them not just for mailing but also as a gift or collectible item. Special designs can add sentimental value, making them more than just a postage solution.

Long-Term SavingsFor those who frequently use stamps, Forever Stamps can lead to long-term savings. By purchasing stamps at the current price and avoiding the need to buy additional stamps as rates rise, you ultimately save money.

Conclusion

When comparing Forever Stamps to regular stamps, the clear winner in terms of value is the Forever Stamp. Their fixed cost, protection against future rate increases, and convenience make them an excellent choice for both individuals and businesses. While regular stamps may suit occasional mailers, the benefits of Forever Stamps far outweigh the drawbacks. Invest in Forever Stamps today, and enjoy a hassle-free mailing experience that keeps pace with postal rates.

SITES WE SUPPORT

Track Virtual Stamp – ​​​Wix