There’s something oddly comforting about holding a postage stamp. It’s small, quiet, almost invisible in its importance—yet it carries letters, bills, promises, and holiday greetings across the country. And among all the stamp types the United States Postal Service (USPS) has ever issued, none have captured the public’s imagination quite like Forever Stamps.
Funny thing is, most of us don’t even notice their significance until we’re standing at the counter, wallet in hand, and the clerk says: “Price went up again.” That’s the moment Forever Stamps start to feel less like paper and more like insurance against inflation.
🌟 The Heart of Forever Stamps
So, what exactly are Forever Stamps? At their core, they are USPS first-class postage stamps designed to retain their value indefinitely. Buy one today at the current rate—78¢ after the latest USPS adjustment—and it will still cover the cost of mailing a standard first-class letter years from now, no matter how much postage rates rise.
That’s the magic. Unlike traditional stamps tied to a fixed denomination, Forever Stamps are timeless. They don’t expire, they don’t lose value, and they don’t require you to scramble for “additional postage” when rates change.
And honestly, that’s the moment I realized: Forever Stamps aren’t just about convenience. They’re about peace of mind.
📈 Why USPS Created Forever Stamps
The USPS introduced Forever Stamps in 2007, starting with the iconic Liberty Bell design. The idea was simple: Americans were tired of buying sheets of 37¢ or 39¢ stamps, only to find them outdated when rates increased.
The New York Times once described this move as “a small but meaningful gesture toward simplicity”. And they were right. Forever Stamps eliminated the frustration of mismatched denominations, while also encouraging bulk purchases.
From a business perspective, it was genius. USPS secured upfront revenue, while customers gained long-term value.
📦 Main USPS Stamp Categories (2026 Prices)
When people talk about Forever Stamps, they often forget that USPS actually issues several different types of stamps, each with its own purpose. Knowing the categories helps you buy with confidence and avoid confusion—especially as we head toward the 2026 mailing season.
| Stamp Type | Current Price | Usage / Scope | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forever Stamp (First-Class Mail) | 78¢ | One-ounce domestic letters | Best for everyday mail; value never expires |
| Two-Ounce Stamp | 107¢ | Letters up to two ounces (wedding invitations, programs) | Easier than combining Forever + Additional Ounce |
| Additional Ounce Stamp | 29¢ | Each extra ounce beyond the first | Combine with Forever Stamps to avoid waste |
| Postcard Stamp | 61¢ | Domestic postcards | Cheaper than Forever Stamps; ideal for travelers |
| International Forever Stamp | $1.7 | One-ounce international letters or postcards | Works for any country, no complex rate calculation |
| Priority Mail Stamp | Starting at $9.95 | Fast delivery for packages/documents | Great for small businesses |
| Priority Mail Express Stamp | Starting at $28.75 | Overnight or expedited delivery | Fastest USPS service |
💌 Real-Life Voices: Sarah and Michael
Take Sarah, a middle-school teacher in Ohio. Every December, she sends out 100 holiday cards. Last year, she stumbled upon a “60% off Forever Stamps” ad online. Her inner voice whispered: “This could save me so much.” But then another thought hit: “Why would USPS let someone sell stamps that cheap?”
She backed out, went to Costco, and bought a bulk pack of Flag Forever Stamps. Relief washed over her. Her cards went out without a hitch, and she avoided the heartbreak of counterfeit postage. Later she told me: “If I could find a legit online supplier, I’d never waste time in Costco again.”
Then there’s Michael, a small business owner running a stationery shop. He mails invoices weekly. At first, Walmart was his go-to—easy, predictable. But eventually, he realized he was spending hours just restocking. “I don’t want to think about stamps every week,” he said. So he found a vetted online supplier, paid a small discount, and locked in a steady flow. His inner monologue? “Now I can focus on my customers, not my postage drawer.”
These stories remind us: Forever Stamps aren’t just about postage. They’re about trust, convenience, and emotional relief.
🏷️ Stamp Types and Designs
Forever Stamps come in several timeless designs. If you’re like me, you probably wonder which ones are worth stocking up on. Here’s the truth: stick with classics.
- Floral stamps: Wedding Roses, Vintage Rose, Flowers from the Garden, Garden Delights. Elegant, versatile, perfect for weddings or personal letters.
- Flag stamps: Patriotic, universal, suitable for both business and personal mail.
- Holiday stamps: Classic Christmas Forever Stamps. They never go out of style, and they carry a nostalgic warmth.
Avoid niche commemoratives unless you’re a collector. They look nice but don’t add practical value for everyday mailing.
📊 Comparison: Where to Buy Forever Stamps
| Channel | Price vs USPS | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS Official | Full price | Guaranteed authentic, widest variety | No discounts |
| Costco | Slight discount | Reliable bulk packs, offline trust | Membership required, time sink |
| Walmart | Same as USPS | Convenient, everywhere | Limited designs |
| Forever Stamp Store | Small discount | Online convenience, authentic source | Shipping wait |
| The USPS Stamps | Small discount | Bulk-friendly, steady supply | Must vet carefully |
| Forever Stamp For Sale | Small discount | Discounted packs, reliable if vetted | Risk if seller not trusted |
⚠️ Reminder: Anything over 50% off is fake. Don’t fall for it. USPS itself has issued warnings, and even the Washington Post covered how scams target small businesses.
🛒 Buying Guide: Avoiding Scams
Trust me, you don’t want to fall for those 70% off fake deals. Sites like Shein or Temu often advertise massive discounts, but they’re counterfeit. USPS has made it clear: real discounts are modest, never massive.
If you’re mailing in bulk for the 2026 season, consider buying early. Rates may rise again, but your Forever Stamps will hold their value.
📬 Postage Rates and the 2026 Season
Forever Stamps are currently priced at 78¢ after the latest USPS adjustment. No changes are expected in the near term, but history tells us rates will eventually climb.
For businesses, this means buying in bulk now is a hedge against future increases. For individuals, it’s simply peace of mind.
Forbes has often reminded us: bulk buying is one of the simplest ways to save, whether stamps or cereal. And when it comes to postage, that advice rings especially true.
🌹 Emotional Anchor: Holding a Promise
Think about it: holding a stamp is holding a promise. Michael once told me he feels a strange pride sealing envelopes with Forever Stamps. “It’s like I’m sending a piece of trust to my customers,” he said.
And honestly, that’s the moment I realized—saving a few cents is nice, but saving your peace of mind is priceless.
Final Thoughts
Forever Stamps are more than postage. They’re a quiet safeguard against inflation, a symbol of trust, and a practical tool for both households and businesses. Whether you’re Sarah sending holiday cards or Michael running a shop, the lesson is the same: buy smart, avoid scams, and let Forever Stamps carry your words safely into the future.
Currently working at USPS in Chicago, he has more than 15 years of experience in bulk mailing and logistics. His columns focus on Forever Stamp trends, helping businesses and individuals make cost‑effective mailing decisions.