Cheapism is editorially independent. We may earn a commission if you buy through links on our site.

Forever U.S. Flag Stamps
U.S. Postal Service

Ready to pay more to mail a letter? The USPS is hoping so, as it has announced plans to hike the rate for sending a letter to 66 cents. The 5.4% increase will span all first-class mail products — and it’s the fourth rate hike in two years.

If you feel as if this happens a lot, you’re not wrong. Since 2019, the USPS has increased postage rates a whopping 16 cents, or 32 percent.

@humphreytalks Why is Mail so cheap to send? #usps #aintneverseentwoprettybestfriends #learnontiktok #tiktokpartner ♬ original sound – Humphrey Yang

If it helps, know that sending letters in the U.S. is still cheaper than almost any other country in the developed world.  

In a press release, USPS explained the price hike, and spoiler alert — it’s partly caused by inflation. “As operating expenses fueled by inflation continue to rise, and the effects of a previously defective pricing model are still being felt, these price adjustments are needed to provide the Postal Service with much-needed revenue to achieve the financial stability sought by its Delivering for America 10-year plan. The prices of the U.S. Postal Service remain among the most affordable in the world.

Gallery: Things You Didn’t Know About the U.S. Postal Service

Want more news in your inbox? Sign up for our free newsletters. And be sure to like us on Facebook, too.

Meet the Writer

Liane Starr has contributed to outlets including the Los Angeles Times, The Hollywood Reporter, People, Budget Living, and more. She still clips coupons. You can reach her at [email protected].