Every Forever stamp is worth the current USPS First-Class letter rate, no matter when you bought it or what you paid. As of the July 12, 2026 rate change, that means each Forever stamp is worth $0.82 in postage, and a full book of 20 covers $16.40 of mailing.
Current postage value of every Forever-type stamp
| Printed on stamp | Covers | Postage value |
|---|---|---|
| FOREVER | First-Class letter (1 oz) | $0.82 |
| ADDITIONAL OUNCE | Each ounce over the first | $0.29 |
| TWO OUNCE | First-Class letter (2 oz) | $1.11 |
| THREE OUNCE | First-Class letter (3 oz) | $1.40 |
| POSTCARD | Domestic postcard | $0.65 |
| GLOBAL | International letter (1 oz) | $1.75 |
Why the value keeps rising
USPS introduced Forever stamps in 2007 so customers would never need make-up postage after a rate increase. The stamp’s value floats with the current rate: the July 2026 adjustment moved it from $0.78 to $0.82, and any Forever stamps in your drawer moved up with it. They never expire.
Can you turn that postage value into cash?
Yes. USPS won’t refund stamps, but stamp buying services purchase unused Forever stamps at a percentage of face value. If you’re holding more postage than you’ll ever mail, that’s real money sitting in a drawer. See our stamp refund rates and how to return your postage, or start with the FAQ on whether the post office buys back stamps.
Quick answers
Are old Forever stamps still worth full postage? Yes, every Forever stamp ever issued covers today’s $0.82 letter rate.
How much postage is a book of Forever stamps worth? $16.40 (20 x $0.82).
Can I use Forever stamps for international mail? Yes, combine them to reach the $1.75 international rate, or use a single GLOBAL stamp.
