Current USPS Postage Rates
2026 rates for Marketing Mail, EDDM, First-Class, and Non-Profit mail — with automation discounts, minimum quantities, and permit requirements explained.
USPS postage rates change periodically — typically in January and July. The rates below reflect the most common categories for direct mail. For details on the latest adjustment, read about the 2025 USPS Postage Rate Changes. Always confirm current rates with Cornerstone or the USPS before planning your budget. We automatically apply the lowest qualifying rate to every campaign we process.
Compiled by Sean Griffen, Owner — Cornerstone Services, Inc.
Sean has processed bulk mail campaigns for Hudson Valley businesses since 1998. The rates on this page are applied to every campaign Cornerstone produces. We update this guide every time USPS announces a rate change.
Last reviewed: January 2026 · Source: USPS Domestic Mail Manual & USPS Business Prices
USPS Marketing Mail (Bulk Mail)
Marketing Mail (formerly Standard Mail) is the most common class for direct mail advertising. Requires a minimum of 200 pieces or 50 lbs per mailing. Delivery is typically 3–10 business days. Cornerstone's full-service mailing automatically qualifies your campaign for the lowest applicable rate.
| Mail Piece Type | Presort Rate | Automation Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Letters (up to 3.5 oz) | $0.357 | $0.308 | Automation requires Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) |
| Postcards | $0.322 | $0.276 | Must meet postcard size requirements |
| Flats / Self-Mailers | $0.542 | $0.488 | Larger pieces, catalogs, booklets |
EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail)
EDDM delivers to every address on selected carrier routes — no mailing list needed. Ideal for local businesses wanting blanket coverage of their area.
| EDDM Type | Rate per Piece | Permit Required? | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| EDDM Retail | $0.247 | No | 5,000/day per ZIP |
| EDDM BMEU | $0.242 | Yes | No daily limit |
First-Class Mail
First-Class is faster (1–3 days) and includes forwarding and return service. Used for invoices, statements, and time-sensitive communications. Presort discounts are available for 500+ pieces.
| Mail Piece Type | Single Piece | Presort/Automation | Min. Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Letters (1 oz) | $0.73 | $0.485 | 500 pieces |
| Postcards | $0.56 | $0.405 | 500 pieces |
| Flats | $1.35 | $0.80 | 500 pieces |
Non-Profit Mail Rates
Qualifying 501(c)(3) organizations receive the lowest USPS rates — typically 40–60% less than commercial Marketing Mail. Requires USPS authorization via PS Form 3624. Learn more about how our non-profit mailing services help organizations apply for and maintain their authorization.
| Mail Piece Type | Non-Profit Rate | vs. Commercial | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Letters (automation) | $0.154 | $0.308 | ~50% |
| Flats (automation) | $0.243 | $0.488 | ~50% |
Get an Exact Quote
Actual postage depends on your specific mail piece size, weight, presort level, and entry point. Let us analyze your campaign and provide an exact postage cost.
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