Postage increase set for January
The cash-strapped U.S. Postal Service will increase the price of a first-class stamp to 45 cents, starting on Jan. 22, 2012, Reuters reported. The 1-cent increase will be the first hike in postage in more than two years. The Postal Service said the cost to mail a postcard will go up 3 cents to 32 cents, letters to Canada or Mexico will increase 5 cents to 85 cents, and letters to other international locations will increase 7 cents to $1.05. Until the price changes take effect, consumers can still purchase 44-cent “forever” stamps, which do not require additional postage after prices go up.