The ordinary stamped one-ounce letter rate is $0.82, effective July 12, 2026. The prior $0.78 rate is historical, not a current buying window.
What changed
The increase was four cents per qualifying one-ounce stamped letter. A book of 20 now represents $16.40 in postal value and 100 stamps represent $82.
Forever rule
A genuine unused Forever stamp bought at an earlier price still covers the current one-ounce domestic letter rate. That does not cover extra weight or nonmachinable conditions.
Use final schedules
A proposed increase is not the rate until the final USPS schedule and effective date apply. Current decisions should use Notice 123, not an old proposal.
Buying boundary
There is no remaining opportunity to buy at the former USPS rate merely because an old article mentions it. Compare only live offers and current transaction terms.
Sources and update note
Issue facts and current postal rules should be checked against the linked primary sources. Prices, inventory, services and policies can change.