For the first time since 2002, the United States Postal Service has raised rates on a first class stamp from 37 cents to 39 cents.
The two cent raise - along with other rate hikes - are to help the Postal Service fulfill a requirement for a $3.1 billion escrow account passed into law in 2003.
In addition to the increased cost of sending a letter, customers should keep in mind the other increases that took effect this week.
Additional ounces for a first class letter cost 24 cents; post card stamps cost 24 cents; USPS stamped post cards are 26 cents; stamped envelopes 47 cents; Priority mail up to 1 lb. $4.05, and Express mail up to 8 ozs. is $14.40; delivery confirmation forPriority mail is 50 cents, first class 60 cents, package service 60 cents; money order fees are 95 cents for money order value up to $500 and for value of $500.01-$1,000 the fee will be $1.30; certified mail fee is $2.50; a return receipt is $1.85.
