Forever stamps are a type of postage stamp issued by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that maintain their value “forever” regardless of when they are used. This means that the stamps can be purchased at the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate and used in the future when rates increase, without any additional postage needed. Forever stamps were introduced by the USPS in 2007 to provide convenience to customers by eliminating the need to purchase additional 1-cent stamps to make up for rate increases.
The standard Forever stamp that is most commonly used for letter mail currently costs 55 cents, the value of a First-Class Mail one-ounce letter. This allows the stamp to always carry the value of one First-Class Mail one-ounce letter, even after price increases. However, it’s important to note that while Forever stamps maintain their monetary value, they do not determine the weight limit for an envelope. The amount of postage needed is based on the total weight.
So how much weight can you mail with a Forever stamp or two Forever stamps? Let’s take a closer look.
Weight Limit for One Forever Stamp
A single Forever stamp at 55 cents carries enough postage for a standard 1 ounce letter. The USPS defines the weight limit for a 1 ounce letter as up to 3.5 oz. This means that a single Forever stamp can be used to mail an envelope weighing between 1 oz and 3.5 oz.
Anything over 1 oz and up to 3.5 oz is considered “additional ounces” and charged at the 20 cents per additional ounce rate. However, the Forever stamp covers up to 1 oz at 55 cents, so the envelope weight is rounded down to the nearest whole ounce. That’s why a single Forever stamp can cover envelopes up to 3.5 oz.
Here are some examples:
– An envelope weighing 1.1 oz requires only 1 Forever stamp at 55 cents.
– An envelope weighing 2.2 oz requires only 1 Forever stamp at 55 cents.
– An envelope weighing 3.4 oz requires only 1 Forever stamp at 55 cents.
So in summary, a single Forever stamp at 55 cents covers a 1 ounce letter plus up to 2 additional ounces, for a total of up to 3.5 ounces in weight.
Weight Limit for Two Forever Stamps
When using two Forever stamps at 55 cents each, the total postage is $1.10. This covers up to 2 ounces in weight.
Here are some examples:
– An envelope weighing 1.1 oz requires 2 Forever stamps at 55 cents each for $1.10 total postage.
– An envelope weighing 1.5 oz requires 2 Forever stamps at 55 cents each for $1.10 total postage.
– An envelope weighing 2 oz requires 2 Forever stamps at 55 cents each for $1.10 total postage.
Adding two Forever stamps doubles the weight limit to 2 full ounces for the base rate. After 2 ounces, each additional ounce is 20 cents.
So in summary, two Forever stamps at 55 cents each provides $1.10 in postage, enough for a 2 ounce letter. Anything above 2 ounces requires additional postage at the 20 cents per ounce rate.
Maximum Weight for Forever Stamps
The maximum weight that can be covered by Forever stamps without requiring extra postage is 3.5 oz when using a single Forever stamp, and 7 oz when using two Forever stamps.
Here’s a breakdown:
– Single Forever stamp – Covers up to 3.5 oz
– Two Forever stamps – Covers up to 7 oz
– Three Forever stamps – Covers up to 10.5 oz
– Four Forever stamps – Covers up to 14 oz
And so on, in increments of 3.5 oz per Forever stamp added.
So in summary:
– 1 Forever stamp covers up to 3.5 oz
– 2 Forever stamps cover up to 7 oz
– 3 Forever stamps cover up to 10.5 oz
– 4 Forever stamps cover up to 14 oz
The maximum weight for First-Class Mail letters and large envelopes is 13 oz. This would require 3 Forever stamps for the first 3 oz, plus 20 cents postage for each of the additional 10 ounces, for a total of $1.40 in postage using Forever stamps and additional ounce rate.
Anything over 13 oz would be considered a First-Class Mail package or parcel and have different rate requirements not covered by Forever stamps alone.
Using Forever Stamps for Heavy Envelopes
If you need to mail an envelope that weighs over 1 ounce but less than 3.5 ounces, a single Forever stamp will cover the postage. If it weighs between 3.5 ounces and 7 ounces, use two Forever stamps.
Here are some tips on using Forever stamps for heavier envelopes:
– Weigh your envelope on a scale to determine the exact weight. Round up to the nearest whole ounce.
– Refer to the Forever stamp weight limits above to calculate how many stamps you need.
– For a weight over 1 ounce but less than 3.5 ounces, use a single Forever stamp.
– Between 3.5 and 7 ounces, use two Forever stamps.
– Between 7 and 10.5 ounces, use three Forever stamps.
– Between 10.5 and 13 ounces, use four Forever stamps.
– For over 13 ounces, calculate First-Class Mail package rates instead.
– Stick the Forever stamps in the upper right corner of the envelope. You can use one or multiple stamps depending on the weight.
– Make sure not to cover over the return address or barcode area if present.
– Check the weight limits before dropping the envelope in a collection box, as heavier mail over 13 ounces requires handing to a clerk.
So in summary, weigh your heavy envelope and determine the postage based on the Forever stamp increments of 3.5 ounces per stamp. Apply the corresponding number of Forever stamps for convenient postage on heavy mail up to 13 ounces.
Cost Savings of Forever Stamps
Forever stamps offer cost savings over buying individual First-Class Mail stamps in two main ways:
1. Locked-in Value
Forever stamps lock in the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce letter rate at the time of purchase. If postal rates increase in the future, Forever stamps automatically adjust in value to the new price. This prevents the need to buy 1-cent stamps to make up the difference in postage.
For example, if you purchase Forever stamps now at 55 cents each, and next year the rates increase to 57 cents for a 1-ounce letter, your existing Forever stamps will still carry the First-Class one-ounce letter rate, now at 57 cents. Without Forever stamps, you’d have to purchase additional 2-cent stamps to make up the difference.
2. Bulk Discount
When you purchase Forever stamps in bulk quantities, you get a cost discount over buying individual First-Class stamps at the Post Office. Forever stamps purchased in a booklet or coil of 20, 100, etc. provide around a 5-10% discount over single stamp purchases that adds up over time.
For instance, a book of 20 Forever stamps currently costs $11, working out to about 55 cents per stamp. Buying 20 individual Forever stamps at the Post Office would cost $11.40 total at 57 cents each. The bulk discount provides savings that you can take advantage of when stocking up on Forever stamps for future use.
So in summary, Forever stamps offer convenience and cost savings that make them a smart choice for both individual and business mailers looking to lock in postage rates. The value flexibility and bulk discount benefits add up over time.
Tips for Using Forever Stamps
Here are some helpful tips for maximizing Forever stamps on your mail:
– Purchase Forever stamps in bulk booklets or coils when possible to get the deepest discount. Avoid buying single stamps at full price.
– Use Forever stamps for routine daily mail like bills, letters, postcards, and greeting cards to conveniently cover future rate hikes.
– Use larger-size Forever stamps for heavier envelopes in place of multiple smaller stamps. A single larger stamp is just as valid.
– Forever stamps work for both domestic and international mail, saving hassle over finding other stamps.
– Consider getting collectible, specialty, or commemorative Forever stamps for interest. Their value remains valid like regular Forever stamps.
– Store Forever stamps in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their stickiness. Heat and light can damage stamps over time.
– Use a sponge or damp cloth to slightly moisten stamps that aren’t sticking well anymore, reviving the glue. Don’t soak the stamps completely.
– Avoid sticking Forever stamps to each other when storing, as they can tear or get stuck together permanently. Leave them loose.
– Don’t try to peel and re-use Forever stamps after applying them to an envelope, as they lose adhesive strength after first use.
Following these tips will help you maximize the value and longevity of your Forever stamp supply. Used wisely, they offer an easy and cost-effective solution for all your First Class mailing needs.
Common Questions about Forever Stamps
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Forever stamps:
How long are Forever stamps valid?
Forever stamps are valid indefinitely for First-Class postage no matter when they are used. The stamps do not have an expiration date. The value will always remain valid to cover a 1 ounce letter at the current First-Class Mail rate.
Can Forever stamps be used for international mail?
Yes, Forever stamps may be used to mail letters internationally from the United States. The stamps serve the same purpose for international mail as for domestic mail, covering 1 ounce of postage at the First-Class international rate.
What happens if I use the wrong number of Forever stamps?
If you use fewer Forever stamps than required, your letter will be returned to you as insufficient postage. If you use more Forever stamps than required, the envelope will still be delivered as normal with no refund for the overpayment. Using the exact number of stamps needed is recommended.
Can Forever stamps be exchanged for a refund?
No, Forever stamps have no cash value and cannot be exchanged for a refund, even if unused. The stamps are solely for the purpose of postage payment and have no redemption value.
Do Forever stamps work for oversized or heavier letters?
You can use multiple Forever stamps to mail letters over 1 ounce, up to 3.5 ounces with a single stamp. Heavier letters require extra Forever stamps, with each stamp covering an additional 1 ounce increment. Oversized envelopes may require extra postage as well, depending on shape and dimensions.
Are Forever stamps available in different designs?
Yes, the USPS offers a variety of commemorative and special-edition Forever stamp designs in addition to the standard flag design. These are still valid as First-Class postage despite having unique designs. New special designs are introduced each year.
In summary, Forever stamps provide a convenient, flexible, and cost-effective option for First-Class Mail. Their indefinite value makes them ideal for stocking up on postage for future, unforeseen rate increases. Following the weight limits guidelines allows you to maximize Forever stamps for all your mailing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, a single Forever stamp at 55 cents covers up to 3.5 ounces in weight for a First-Class Mail letter or envelope. Two Forever stamps at 55 cents each provide enough postage for up to 7 ounces in weight. Each additional Forever stamp adds 3.5 ounces to the maximum weight limit up to 13 ounces total for First-Class Mail letters.
Forever stamps offer convenience by maintaining value to always meet the current First-Class 1-ounce letter rate. They provide cost savings through locked-in value and bulk discounts over regular stamps. Following the weight limits and usage tips allows you to maximize Forever stamps for all your light and heavy envelope mailing needs.
