Last Updated on 11/15/2017 by GS Staff
[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”Q: ” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color”][/otw_shortcode_dropcap] How much does a book of stamps cost?
[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”A:” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color”][/otw_shortcode_dropcap] The cost of stamps can be confusing because the Post Service changes the price of stamps from time to time. There have been seven price changes on traditional first class letter stamps over the past decade. The current rate for a single first class letter stamp is $0.49.
A book of stamps contains 20 stamps. By doing the math ($0.49 per stamp x 20 stamps in a book), we find that the cost of a book of stamps is $9.80. This is the amount you would pay at the Post Office. You may pay a higher rate if you buy stamps outside of the post office.
According to The Post and Courier, the U.S. Postal Service has entered into its 11th consecutive year of operating at a loss. The most recent fiscal year loss was $2.7 billion.
The Postal Service is seeking approval to raise stamp price above the normally allowed small inflation increase of a penny or so. This is something to keep an eye on because the increase could be noticeable as the Postal Service looks to curb their financial losses.
The cost of a first-class stamp is projected to increase a penny from $0.49 to $0.50 in January due to an inflation increase. If this happens, a book of stamps will cost $10.00 ($0.50 per stamp x 20 stamps in a book). This will be a $0.20 increase from the current book of stamps cost of $9.80.
If you are looking to buy a book of stamps, we recommend just going to the post office. You can buy your stamps at face value there. You often also have the ability to purchase your stamps around the clock through an automated machine inside the building. Many other places sell stamps if the Post Office is not convenient for you. Check out our article on where to buy stamps for additional locations.
