| WASHINGTON — The Postal Regulatory Commission has notified the U.S. Postal Service that price changes announced Jan. 13 satisfy the requirements of the law and will take effect April 17. The first U.S. Postal Service mailing services price change in two years will have minimal impact on retail customers who will continue to pay only 44 cents for a stamp. Price changes of note for retail customers include the following: First-Class Mail letters (1 oz.) remain unchanged at 44 cents, First-Class Mail additional ounces increase to 20 cents, Postcards will cost 29 cents, Letters to Canada or Mexico (1 oz.) increase to 80 cents, and Letters to other international destinations will remain unchanged at 98 cents. "Postal Service products and services offer a great value to the American public,” said Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe. “For a very affordable price, you can send letters, bill payments, packages, and other mail across town or across the nation.” The 1.7 percent average increase is at or below the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index — although actual percentage price increases for various products and services vary. Prices will also change for other mailing services, including Standard Mail, Periodicals, Package Services and Extra Services. Larger volume business mailers will see price increases in a variety of categories. Detailed pricing information is available online at www.usps.com/prices. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. |
