How Do Forever Stamps Work for Domestic and International Shipping

Forever stamps are a convenient and cost-effective way to send mail, but how do they work for domestic and international shipping? A Forever stamp is a type of postage stamp that can be used to send a 1-ounce letter anywhere in the United States.

Domestically, Forever stamps can be used to send mail to any address within the US, but the cost of shipping may increase if the package weighs more than 1 ounce. For example, if you're sending a package that weighs 2 ounces, you'll need to add additional postage.

International shipping is a bit more complex, and Forever stamps are not always accepted. However, they can be used to send mail to certain countries, such as Canada and Mexico, for a flat rate of $1.20.

Forever stamps are a convenient way to pay for postage on First Class letters. They're also known as non-denominated postage or non-value indicator (NVI) postage stamps.

For another approach, see: How Many Forever Stamps to Canada

The United States Postal Service introduced the first Forever stamp in 2007. This innovative idea has since been adopted by many countries worldwide.

A Forever stamp doesn't show a monetary value, but that doesn't mean it's free. You can still use it when postage rates increase without sticking additional stamps on your envelope.

Its value remains the same as the current value of a single First Class stamp, regardless of how much postage increases over time.

Forever stamps don't have a specific monetary value; their value is equal to what it currently costs to send a one-ounce First Class letter.

You can check the USPS website for the current first-class postage rate to find out what a Forever Stamp is worth today. For example, in January 2023, the rate increased to 68 cents.

The value of a Forever Stamp remains the same as the current value of a single First Class stamp, regardless of how much postage increases over time. This means you can send a letter with a Forever Stamp today, tomorrow, or even five years from now, no matter the cost of a current stamp.

To find out what a Forever Stamp is worth, simply check the USPS website for the current first-class postage rate. Increases tend to happen yearly, so it's a good idea to check regularly.

The United States Postal Service debuted its first Forever stamp in 2007, and they are valid on First Class letters.

Forever stamps never expire, but they do have some requirements to be valid. The stamp must be in good condition, without being ripped, wrinkly, stained, or too faded.

You can still use Forever stamps even after they're no longer current, as long as they're in good condition. This is a great perk, especially if you have a stash of stamps that are still usable.

The non-denomination indicator "Forever" must be visible on the stamp for it to be valid. If this portion is cut off, illegible, or covered, the USPS may not accept it.

The Forever Stamp Program is a game-changer for both the USPS and customers. It eliminates the need for customers and the Postal Service to acquire and distribute new denominated stamps in anticipation of price changes.

The program was so successful that by 2011, the USPS started using Forever Stamps for almost all first-class stamps. This was a win for everyone involved.

The Forever Stamp concept was extended to postcards and more in 2015. This expansion helped the Postal Service save money by not having to collect and destroy outdated stamps.

Customers are also spared the inconvenience of having to buy stamps worth just a few cents to use with their old stamps when prices rise.

Buying a Domestic Forever Stamp is not always the cheapest option for mailing within the United States. For example, a postcard stamp can be purchased for 40 cents, which is cheaper than a Domestic Forever Stamp costing 58 cents.

If you do decide to use a Domestic Forever Stamp, it's good to know that it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. The dimensions of your postcard must fall within a specific range: at least 3.5 inches high and 5 inches long, and no larger than 4.25 inches high and 6 inches long.

To ensure you're using the correct postage, make sure your postcard meets these requirements.

Domestic letter mailing with Forever Stamps is a convenient and cost-effective option. The price per ounce for a standard first-class letter within the U.S. is 58 cents, with delivery within 1-3 business days.

If your envelope weighs more than one ounce, you'll need to pay extra per ounce. The cost to send each additional ounce increased from 15 cents to 20 cents in 2021.

Here's a breakdown of the postage costs for letters over one ounce:

Keep in mind that once your envelope exceeds the 3.5-ounce weight limit, you'll need to look at rates for "flats", which are large envelopes for mailings from 3.5-13 ounces.

Domestic postcard shipping can be a cost-effective option, especially if you're mailing a postcard within the United States. Buying a postcard stamp for 40 cents is cheaper than a Domestic Forever Stamp, which costs 58 cents.

To mail a postcard, it must meet certain size requirements. The postcard dimensions must be at least 3.5 inches high and 5 inches long.

The shape of the postcard is also important. It must be rectangular.

Thickness matters too - the postcard must be at least 0.007 inches thick and no thicker than 0.016 inches.

Here's a quick reference guide to the postcard shipping requirements:

You can mail letters from the U.S. to the U.K. using Global Forever Stamps, which cost $1.30.

Global Forever Stamps only cover up to two ounces, so if your letter weighs more than that, you'll pay extra.

To use Domestic Forever Stamps for international shipping, make sure they total at least $1.30.

Using Global Forever Stamps is the easiest way to mail letters from the U.S. to the U.K.

If you choose to use Domestic Forever Stamps, be prepared to pay more if your letter weighs more than one ounce.