See current USPS Certified Mail Rates
Publish Date: July 3, 2023
A total mail volume of 127.3 billion in 2022 explains exactly why the United States Postal Service (USPS) is the largest mailing service in America. Last year, USPS delivered packages to almost 165 million addresses in the United States. An astounding 7.3 billion first-class package services were delivered to those addresses.
In recent years, USPS has changed its rates semiannually.
What are the new changes to USPS? What is the postal rate update? We are covering these and many other frequently asked questions regarding the USPS July 2023 rate change below.
Is there a July price increase for USPS? When do the rates increase?
Yes. The U.S. Postal Service will increase postal rates on July 9th, 2023 at 12:01 AM. The rate increase was approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) on April 10, 2023.
When did the Post Office last raise rates?
The last USPS rate increase went into effect on January 22, 2023. Also in January, the Postal Service discontinued the Priority Mail Regional Rate Boxes A and B. Learn more about the discontinuation.
Why are the rates going up?
Approved by the PRC in April, the increase is part of the “Delivering for America” plan. Announced in the spring of 2021, this 10-year plan is a way for USPS to gain financial stability. Prices will rise twice a year to achieve financially sustainable and avoid $160 billion in losses by 2030.
The Governors of the PRC feel the rate increase will provide revenue while maintaining market dominance. Comparatively, USPS is among the most affordable shipping services worldwide.
To view the full 10-year plan, click here. Learn more about the Postal Regulatory Commission.
What are the pricing changes in the USPS July 2023?
The Certified Mail fee will see a $0.20 increase from $4.15 to $4.35. Certified Mail with Return Receipt Green Card (Old Fashioned Green Card) will also see a $0.20 jump from $3.35 to $3.55. Certified Mail with Return Receipt Electronic Signature (PDF) (replaces Green Card) will increase $0.10 from $2.10 to $2.20.
Restricted Delivery Service will increase to $7.10, a $0.45 increase from $6.65.
The rate for 1oz Flats (9″ X 12″ or 10' X 13') will go up $0.09 to $1.35. Click here to see a full price breakdown of Flats rate prices over 1 OZ. and Letter Rates over 3.5 OZ.
To view a full USPS rate increase chart, click here.
Is the postage rate going to change in July 2023?
The First Class Postage (1 OZ) (Metered Rate) will be increasing by $0.03, raising it from $0.60 to $0.63.
How much does it cost to mail a normal letter in 2023 now?
First Class mail postage stamps will be increasing by $0.03. At the Post Office, a stamp will cost $0.66 compared to $0.63 prior to the increase. One First Class postage stamp can mail a one-ounce letter.
Can you use the older Forever Stamps? Are Forever Stamps expiring?
No. Forever Stamps are not expiring. A one-ounce letter can be mailed with a Forever Stamp no matter when it is purchased or is mailed. Even if prices go up, a previously purchased Forever Stamp can still mail a one-ounce letter.
Learn more about Forever Stamps.
Will there be another USPS rate increases in 2023?
USPS states here that they are continually reviewing their pricing approach for all products. However, it is unlikely to see a third rate increase this year. That being said, based on previous years, a temporary rate adjustment is likely during the peak holiday season later this year.
How can I save on mailings?
Send USPS Certified Mail®, Priority Mail, and Express Mail with USPS Postage by addressing and printing labels online with Certified Mail Labels. Skip the trip to the Post Office and save time and $2.65 on every old-fashioned green card (Form 3800) you send with Certified Mail Labels.
Learn more about Certified Mail Labels. Account creation is fast and free. Begin by creating an account, now!
Additional Resources
USPS Certified Mail Rates 2023 Certified Mail Labels Costs
About the USPS July 2023 Rate Increase
