New postage rates will go into effect on Monday, May 11. Rising costs make the price adjustment necessary-the increase tracks the 2008 rate of inflation.

The major price change for individuals will be the increase of the one-ounce, first-class letter from 42 cents to 44 cents. Additional ounces will remain at 17 cents. Postal cards will increase from 27 cents to 28 cents.

Postmaster General Jack Potter has commented, “The Postal Service is not immune to rising costs which are affecting homes and businesses across America today. Even with the increases, the Postal Service continues to offer some of the lowest postage prices in the world.”

For the average household, the first-class mail stamp price change represents an additional $3.00 over the course of the year.

Customers can continue to mail letters at today’s prices by purchasing the “Forever” stamp, featuring the Liberty Bell, before May 11 at the 42-cent price. The “Forever” stamp was developed to help consumers ease the transition during price changes. They don’t have a denomination and are honored whenever they are used with no need for additional postage for the one-ounce letter.

The Postal Service does not receive tax dollars to cover the cost of operations; it is supported by the revenue from the sale of products and services. As an example, the Postal Service has the largest civilian fleet of vehicles in the world-219,000. When fuel costs increase just one penny a year, the costs increase more than $8 million.

For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com.

To schedule a presentation for our community, club or group on how the Postal Service brings the Post Office to your home or office computer, call 239-573-9638.

Mr. Zip’s Tip: For packages weighing up to 70 pounds, Priority Mail rates are based on weight and distance to be traveled. There is no extra charge for Saturday delivery where available and shipping supplies are available at no extra charge at your Post Office and via the Internet (USPS.com). If you print your Priority Mail shipping label online, you get Delivery Confirmation at no extra charge!