Why does it cost me more now to send mail and packages?

The Postal Service generally does not receive tax dollars to support its normal operations. Instead, it relies on postage to cover the cost of delivering mail. As with private businesses, the Postal Service faces increased costs, including gas and wages. While postal pricing is regulated, postal prices are allowed to increase. The Postal Service last increased its prices on its letters and flats in July 2025. Parcel prices changed in January 2025 and July 2025. In addition, in some years, USPS has implemented temporary peak-season holiday surcharges on some parcels.