How Many Forever Stamps Do You Need?

Nick Leason

-Sep 29, 2025

Wondering how many Forever stamps to use? Forever stamps always equal the current First-Class Mail® postage rate, but knowing how many you need depends on what you're mailing, its size, and its weight. This guide clarifies stamp quantities for letters, postcards, and packages, ensuring your mail gets delivered without extra charges or returns.

Key Takeaways

Forever stamps cover current postage rates for standard-sized, one-ounce letters.
Additional postage is needed for oversized letters, heavier packages, and mail to international destinations.
Use the USPS postage calculator to determine the exact postage needed for your specific mail.
Forever stamps are a good investment, protecting against future postage increases.
Consider purchasing a variety of stamps for different mailing needs.

Introduction

Navigating the world of postage can feel like deciphering a secret code. With rising costs and varying mail types, knowing the right amount of postage is essential. This is where Forever stamps come into play, offering simplicity and cost-effectiveness. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about using Forever stamps, ensuring your mail reaches its destination smoothly and efficiently.

What & Why

What is a Forever Stamp?

A Forever stamp is a U.S. postage stamp that can always be used to mail a standard-sized, one-ounce letter, regardless of when it was purchased. Unlike regular stamps, which are sold at a specific rate, Forever stamps are designed to keep pace with fluctuating postal rates. This makes them a valuable asset for both personal and business use, as they eliminate the need to buy additional stamps if the postage rate increases.

Why Use Forever Stamps?

Cost-Effectiveness: They protect you from future postage rate increases. If you buy them now, you can use them in the future, regardless of the price changes. This is especially useful if you mail letters frequently.
Convenience: Forever stamps simplify the mailing process. You don't need to worry about calculating the correct postage for each letter, saving time and effort.
Versatility: They can be used on various mail items, including letters, postcards, and even larger envelopes if you add additional postage.
Long-Term Value: Forever stamps retain their value indefinitely. You can use them years after their purchase, making them a smart investment.

Risks and Considerations

Additional Postage: While Forever stamps cover the standard letter rate, you'll need additional postage for items that exceed one ounce, are larger than standard size, or are being sent internationally.
Bulkier Items: Forever stamps alone may not be sufficient for heavier packages. You'll need to calculate the exact postage based on weight and destination.
Storage: Store your stamps in a safe, dry place to preserve their adhesive properties. Avoid extreme temperatures or humidity.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application

1. Determine the Type of Mail

First, identify what you're sending:

Letters: Standard letters are typically rectangular and weigh up to 3.5 ounces. Forever stamps are ideal for standard letters weighing up to one ounce.
Postcards: Postcards are usually rectangular and are a standard size. One Forever stamp is sufficient for domestic postcards.
Large Envelopes (Flats): These are larger than standard letters, often used for documents, and require more postage than a single Forever stamp, even if they weigh less than one ounce.
Packages: Packages are typically thicker or heavier than flats and require postage based on weight, dimensions, and destination.

2. Weigh Your Mail

Use a postal scale or a kitchen scale to accurately weigh your mail. This is crucial for determining how much postage you need, especially for items that are not standard-sized letters or postcards. — Newcastle Vs Arsenal: Premier League Showdown

3. Measure the Dimensions

Measure the length, width, and thickness of your mail. The USPS has specific size requirements for letters and flats. Mail that exceeds these dimensions may be subject to additional postage.

4. Use the USPS Postage Calculator

The USPS website offers a free postage calculator. Input the type of mail, weight, dimensions, and destination to determine the exact postage required. This tool is especially useful for international mail and packages.

5. Calculate Postage

Standard Letters (up to 1 oz): One Forever stamp.
Standard Letters (over 1 oz): Additional postage (e.g., one Forever stamp plus additional stamps).
Postcards: One Forever stamp.
Large Envelopes (Flats): The postage required depends on the weight and dimensions. You'll typically need more than one Forever stamp, but you can use them in combination with other stamps.
Packages: Postage is calculated based on weight, dimensions, and destination. Use the USPS postage calculator for accuracy.

6. Apply the Stamps

Apply the stamps neatly to the upper-right corner of your envelope or package. Make sure they are secure and fully adhere to the surface.

Examples & Use Cases

Personal Mail

Sending a Birthday Card: A standard birthday card can be sent with one Forever stamp.
Paying Bills: Most bill payments can be sent with a Forever stamp if the envelope meets standard size and weight requirements.
Thank You Notes: A handwritten thank you note also requires only a Forever stamp if it's a standard-sized letter.

Business Mail

Sending Invoices: Businesses sending invoices often use Forever stamps for standard invoices and letters.
Marketing Materials: Brochures and marketing materials often require additional postage depending on size and weight. Use the USPS calculator to ensure the correct amount.
Customer Correspondence: Companies sending customer letters can rely on Forever stamps for routine communications.

International Mail

Sending a Letter to Canada: For a standard letter to Canada, you would need a Forever stamp plus additional postage based on the current international rates.
Sending a Package to Europe: Packages to Europe will require postage based on the weight, dimensions, and destination country. Always use the USPS postage calculator.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

Best Practices

Buy in Bulk: Purchase Forever stamps in bulk to save time and money. Consider buying various denominations for different mailing needs.
Store Stamps Properly: Keep your stamps in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to preserve their adhesive.
Double-Check Weight and Dimensions: Always weigh and measure your mail accurately to avoid postage due fees or delays.
Use the Postage Calculator: Take advantage of the USPS online postage calculator for complex mailings or international shipments.

Common Mistakes

Underestimating Postage: The most common mistake is not using enough postage, especially for larger envelopes and packages.
Not Weighing Mail: Guessing the weight of your mail can lead to errors and delays. Always use a scale.
Using Damaged Stamps: Stamps that are torn or damaged may not be accepted by the USPS machines.
Ignoring Size Restrictions: Exceeding the size limits for standard letters can result in additional postage charges.

FAQs

What happens if I put the wrong postage on a letter? If you don't put enough postage on a letter, it will either be returned to you or the recipient will be charged the remaining postage amount.
Can I use Forever stamps on international mail? Yes, but you will need additional postage. A Forever stamp covers the current value for a standard one-ounce letter. You will need to add additional stamps to cover the international postage rate. — San Francisco Weather In March: What To Expect
Do Forever stamps expire? No, Forever stamps do not expire. You can use them indefinitely, regardless of future postage rate increases.
Where can I buy Forever stamps? You can purchase Forever stamps at any Post Office location, online at the USPS website, or at many retail stores that sell postal supplies.
Can I use multiple Forever stamps on a single piece of mail? Yes, you can use multiple Forever stamps on a single piece of mail to cover the required postage, especially for larger items or international mail. — Kenosha, WI Weather Radar: Real-Time Updates
Are Forever stamps the same price as regular stamps? Forever stamps are initially sold at the same price as the current First-Class Mail® postage rate for a standard letter. However, the key difference is that Forever stamps maintain their value regardless of future postage rate increases, while regular stamps only cover the initial value they are sold for.

Conclusion with CTA

Understanding how many Forever stamps you need is essential for smooth and efficient mailing. Whether sending a simple letter or a complex package, knowing the basics of postage ensures your mail arrives on time and without extra fees. By using the USPS postage calculator and following the best practices outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the postal system. Ready to start sending? Head to your local post office or the USPS website to stock up on Forever stamps and other postal supplies today!

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 00:00 UTC