USPS stamp prices will not increase at the start of 2026, but many mailing and shipping services will cost more. The U.S. Postal Service confirmed price hikes for several popular delivery options beginning in mid-January.
When USPS price increases take effect
The United States Postal Service says the new rates will begin on January 18, 2026.
The changes were proposed in a filing with the Postal Regulatory Commission on November 14.
Mailing services like the First-Class Mail stamp will remain unchanged in January.
Which USPS services are getting more expensive
Several shipping options will see notable increases. According to USPS projections:
- Priority Mail Service: up about 6.6%
- Priority Mail Express Service: up about 5.1%
- USPS Ground Advantage: up about 7.8%
- Parcel Select: up about 6%
These increases apply nationwide.
Priority Mail price examples for 2026
Here’s how some common Priority Mail flat-rate options are changing:
- Flat rate envelope: $11.90 → $11.95
- Legal flat rate envelope: $12.10 → $12.25
- Padded flat rate envelope: $12.85 → $12.95
- Small flat rate box: $12.60 → $12.65
- Medium flat rate box: $21.95 → $22.95
- Large flat rate box: $31.40 → $31.50
- APO/FPO/DPO large flat rate box: unchanged at $30.15
Additional service changes are expected across other shipping categories.
Why USPS prices are increasing
The Postal Service says the new rates are part of its long-term modernization strategy.
In a statement, USPS said the increases are designed to:
- Keep the agency competitive
- Generate needed revenue
- Support six-day-a-week mail and package delivery
Shipping prices are adjusted based on market conditions, which differ from how mailing services are priced.
What’s not changing in 2026
Despite the shipping hikes, USPS confirmed that:
- First-Class Mail stamp prices will not increase in January
- Other mailing service rates will also remain stable for now
That provides some relief for consumers who rely on regular mail.
What customers should expect next
More changes could come later in 2026. USPS has adjusted prices multiple times per year in recent cycles as part of its financial recovery plan.
Customers who ship frequently may want to:
- Compare service options
- Plan shipments before January 18
- Review flat-rate versus weight-based pricing
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