Q: Do Forever Stamps expire? → A: No, Forever Stamps never expire and remain valid indefinitely. USPS Forever Stamps retain their full postage value regardless of when purchased or how much rates increase over time. Currently priced at 78 cents as of July 2025, these stamps can mail any standard 1-ounce First-Class letter within the U.S., even if you bought them years ago at lower prices.
Forever Stamps offer permanent postage protection against rate increases. When introduced in 2007 at 41 cents each, they’ve proven their value as rates climbed 90% to today’s 78-cent price. Whether sending holiday cards, business correspondence, or personal letters, Forever Stamps eliminate the guesswork of calculating proper postage. For more money-saving tips about USPS services, check out our comprehensive USPS Frequently Asked Questions guide.
How Do Forever Stamps Work Without Expiring?
USPS Forever Stamps carry no printed denomination and never lose their postage value. Unlike traditional stamps with specific cent amounts, Forever Stamps automatically adjust to current First-Class Mail rates without requiring additional postage.
The “Forever” designation means these stamps remain valid for standard 1-ounce letters indefinitely. USPS directly confirms that Forever Stamps have no expiration date, regardless of purchase date or subsequent rate changes.
Key Forever Stamp facts:
- No expiration date stamped on the stamp face
- Always equal current First-Class Mail rate for 1-ounce letters
- Valid for domestic U.S. mail delivery
- Cannot be used alone for international mail or heavier packages
Q: Can I use 2010 Forever Stamps today?
A: Yes, Forever Stamps purchased in 2010 at 44 cents remain fully valid for today’s 78-cent postage rate.
Q: What happens if I have damaged Forever Stamps?
A: Stamps must be in good condition (not ripped, wrinkled, stained, or faded) to remain valid for postage.
Q: Do Forever Stamps work for all mail types?
A: Forever Stamps cover standard First-Class letters only, not Certified Mail, Priority Mail, or international postage.
What Are Current Forever Stamp Prices in 2025-2026?
Forever Stamps cost 78 cents each as of July 13, 2025, following a 5-cent increase from the previous 73-cent rate. USPS announced no stamp price increases for early 2026, though mid-2026 rate changes remain possible.
| Service | 2025 Rate | Previous Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Forever Stamp (1 oz) | 78 cents | 73 cents |
| Postcard Stamp | 61 cents | 56 cents |
| Additional Ounce | 24 cents | 24 cents |
| Global Forever Stamp | $1.70 | $1.65 |
Historical perspective shows Forever Stamps’ inflation protection value. Originally priced at 41 cents in 2007, they’ve increased 90% over 18 years while maintaining their utility for purchasers at any price point.
Q: Will Forever Stamp prices increase in 2026?
A: USPS confirmed no price increases for early 2026, though mid-2026 rate changes are planned without specified amounts.
Where Can You Buy Forever Stamps in 2025?
Forever Stamps are available through multiple convenient purchasing channels, making them accessible for individuals and businesses nationwide.
Primary purchase locations:
- USPS retail locations: Post offices, postal kiosks, and USPS stores
- Online: USPS.com with home delivery or pickup options
- Retail partners: Grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and office supply stores
- Bulk purchasing: Available in sheets, booklets, and rolls alongside other Shipping Supplies And Packaging essentials for businesses with high mailing volumes
Explore more in our Shipping Services and Solutions hub.
Part of our USPS Shipping Rates guide. Related: USPS Discounts, USPS Shipping Rates Calculator, USPS Cheapest Shipping, Where to Buy Stamps, How Heavy a Letter Can Be for a First-Class Stamp, and First-Class Mail.
