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.

Note: Rates shown are approximate and subject to change. Actual rates depend on mail piece size, weight, presort level, and entry point. Contact us for an exact quote for your specific campaign.

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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