The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is strategically implementing a comprehensive, decade-long plan aimed at securing its long-term financial viability. This initiative, dubbed “Delivering for America” and launched in 2021, seeks to transform the organization into a self-sustaining and high-performing entity. It addresses a substantial accumulated deficit through significant infrastructure investments and a revised pricing framework designed to generate essential revenue.
- The “Delivering for America” initiative, launched in 2021, aims for USPS financial self-sustainability.
- Recent price adjustments saw First-Class Mail Forever stamps rise from 73 cents to 78 cents.
- Overall mailing service product prices experienced a 7.4% increase.
- The plan allocates $41 billion for network, retail, delivery, and technology infrastructure upgrades.
- The USPS anticipates five more price adjustments by the end of 2027, with the next significant one projected for July 2025.
Strategic Financial Overhaul and Investment
The latest price adjustments are an integral component of the broader “Delivering for America” plan, which was unveiled during a period of significant financial and operational strain for the agency, marked by over $160 billion in accumulated losses. A cornerstone of this comprehensive strategy is a substantial commitment to infrastructure investment. The plan designates $20 billion towards enhancing its mail and package processing network, an additional $19 billion for its retail and delivery infrastructure, and $2 billion specifically for critical technology upgrades, including core IT systems. These investments are meticulously designed to modernize operations, improve efficiency, and bolster the long-term sustainability and reliability of postal services nationwide.
Beyond these immediate adjustments, the USPS has outlined a proactive roadmap for future price modifications, anticipating five such changes by the end of 2027. Filings submitted to the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) indicate that the next significant adjustment is projected for July 2025. This will encompass “Market Dominant classes,” which include key services such as First-Class mail, marketing mail, and periodicals. Further incremental increases are also anticipated bi-annually in January and July of both 2026 and 2027, establishing a sustained pattern of rate adjustments designed to ensure consistent revenue generation.
The U.S. Postal Service has recommended specific new prices to take effect in July 2025, as detailed below:
| Service Category | Recommended New Price (Effective July 2025) | Prior Price (Before July 2025 Recommendation) |
| Letters (1 ounce) | 78 cents | 73 cents |
| Letters (metered 1 ounce) | 74 cents | 69 cents |
| Domestic postcards | 61 cents | 56 cents |
| International postcards | $1.70 | $1.65 |
| International letter (1 ounce) | $1.70 | $1.65 |
Despite these ongoing and projected price increases, the USPS maintains that its service prices remain among the most affordable globally. This strategic approach seeks to balance the essential need for revenue generation with the commitment to maintaining accessibility for consumers and businesses across the United States.
David Thompson earned his MBA from the Wharton School and spent five years managing multi-million-dollar portfolios at a leading asset management firm. He now applies that hands-on investment expertise to his writing, offering practical strategies on portfolio diversification, risk management, and long-term wealth building.