The year is closing. 2025 is almost gone, and 2026 is knocking at the door. Kitchen counters are cluttered with holiday cards, boxes from Amazon sit by the door, and suddenly—you realize you’re nearly out of stamps. Not just any stamps, but Forever Stamps.
Funny thing, right? A tiny square of paper, yet it carries more weight than most people think. It’s not just postage; it’s a promise. A promise that no matter how much prices rise, your letter will still go through. And with USPS confirming the 78‑cent rate (set in July 2025) will hold steady until at least July 2026, you’ve got a rare window of certainty.
Why Forever Stamps Still Matter in 2026
You might ask: in a world of emails, texts, and instant messaging, why bother with stamps?
Because some things deserve paper. A wedding invitation. A holiday card with your handwriting. A condolence note that feels human.
And here’s the kicker: Forever Stamps are inflation‑proof. Buy them today at 78 cents, and even if rates jump in 2027, you’re covered. That’s why smart buyers treat stamps almost like a hedge—small, but steady.
I remember talking to Sarah Miller, a schoolteacher in Ohio. She laughed nervously and said:
“Every December I panic. Did I buy enough? Did I overpay? Then I find myself scrolling through sites at midnight, wondering if that 60% discount is too good to be true. Spoiler: it always is.”
Her words echo what many of us feel—confusion mixed with urgency.
USPS Tips You Can’t Ignore
The USPS itself has been clear: no price changes until July 2026. That gives you breathing room. But don’t confuse stability with simplicity.
Here are USPS‑anchored reminders:
- Check official updates: USPS posts announcements regularly. See the USPS newsroom release on July 2025 price changes.
- Know your stamp types: Forever Stamps cover First‑Class letters, but oversized or non‑machinable mail needs extra postage. More details are available in USPS’s official guide to stamp types.
- Holiday timing: USPS holiday cutoffs are strict. Buying late December stamps won’t save your January bills. See the 2025 USPS holiday shipping deadlines for exact dates.
Bulk Buying Guide: The Smart Way to Save
Buying in bulk feels tempting, especially when you see “discounts.” But here’s the truth: any site offering more than 50% off is selling fakes. Period.
| Buying Option | Typical Discount | Notes | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS Direct | None | Official, reliable, no discounts. | ⭐ Safe |
| Amazon/Ebay | 5–15% | Check seller ratings carefully. | Medium |
| Costco/Walmart | 5–10% | Trusted retailers, limited stock. | ⭐ Safe |
| Forever Stamp Store | 10–15% | Specialized, consistent delivery. | ⭐ Safe |
| The USPS Stamps | 10–15% | Focused on collectors + bulk buyers. | ⭐ Safe |
| Forever Stamp For Sale | 10–15% | Transparent pricing, US‑based. | ⭐ Safe |
| Shein/Temu | 50%+ | 100% fake, avoid at all costs. | 🚫 Fraud |
The Emotional Side of Buying Stamps
This might sound dramatic, but stamps carry emotional weight.
Think of John Peterson, a retired Navy officer. He told me once:
“I bought a batch online last year—looked perfect, glossy, patriotic. Then the clerk at the post office shook his head. Fake. I felt stupid, embarrassed. Like I’d been conned out of something more than money.”
That sting of betrayal is real. And it’s why this checklist matters. Buying stamps is about protecting not just your wallet, but your dignity.
More Buying Advice for 2026
Here’s where I get personal. If you’re buying for 2026, keep these in mind:
- Avoid midnight panic buys. Fraud thrives when you’re tired and desperate.
- Stick to low‑discount channels. Amazon, Costco, Walmart, and the trusted niche sites mentioned above.
- Don’t hoard too much. Yes, Forever Stamps hold value, but tying up hundreds of dollars in postage isn’t always smart.
- Watch for design releases. Collectible designs (holiday, commemorative) often sell out fast.
And if you’re ever in doubt, ask yourself: Would I trust this seller with my holiday cards? If the answer feels shaky, walk away.
Stamp Types: Know Before You Order
Not all stamps are equal. Here’s a quick refresher:
- Forever Stamps: First‑Class letters, inflation‑proof.
- Non‑Machinable Surcharge Stamps: For square or odd‑shaped envelopes.
- Additional Ounce Stamps: For heavier letters.
- Priority Mail Stamps: For faster delivery.
Understanding these types saves you from awkward trips to the post office.
Wrapping It Up: Your Forever Stamp Checklist
So here’s the emotional truth: buying stamps is about more than postage. It’s about trust, timing, and protecting yourself from scams.
Sarah’s midnight panic, John’s embarrassment at the counter—these are reminders that we’re all vulnerable. But with the right checklist, you can buy confidently, knowing your letters will carry not just ink, but intention.
And as 2026 approaches, with prices locked at 78 cents until July, you’ve got a window of certainty. Use it wisely.
Former USPS employee with 5 years of service and 25 years in corporate mailing management. Certified in Mail Systems Management and trained at the USPS Business Mail Academy, Kobe now shares trusted guidance on U.S. postage stamps and safe buying practices after retiring in 2023.