Forever Means Forever: Why You Can Use Old Stamps in 2025
Postage stamps that don't expire
Forever® stamps were introduced by the USPS nearly 20 years ago, with the aim to simplify postage for customers.
Instead of requiring Americans to buy 1¢ or 2¢ stamps to make up for inevitable rate increases, the idea was that a Forever stamp would always be valid for mailing a standard domestic First-Class one-ounce letter, regardless of when it was bought or what the current rate may be. These stamps are called “Forever” because they retain their value forever, even if postage rates go up.
Can I use old Forever stamps?
Yes! There is no expiration date for USPS Forever stamps. As long as a stamp is genuine and has not been previously used, it is perfectly acceptable to use.
And Forever means forever. So if you bought a Forever stamp when the concept was first introduced in 2007 for its then-rate of 41¢, you can still use that same stamp to mail a letter today — even though the current First-Class rate is 78¢ (as of July 2025).
When can I not use a Forever stamp?
Forever stamps are always valid for domestic mail as there is no expiration date for these USPS stamps. For mailing an international First-Class one-ounce letter, though, you will need a Global stamp. It is also valid "forever." Global stamps cost more than domestic Forever stamps, but both will save you from needing to buy extra postage during future rate increases. Just make sure you’re buying the type you need, depending on where you’re hoping to send your mail.
What should I do if I have old postage stamps that aren’t Forever stamps?
These are still valid to use, too, as there is no expiration date for USPS stamps. You can use non-Forever stamps as long as their total value (either alone or with additional postage) meets or exceeds the current rate requirement. That means you can cobble together seven 10¢ stamps, one 5¢ stamp, and three 1¢ stamps to mail a single First-Class letter, if you'd like — just as long as the postage amounts to 78¢ or higher.
DID YOU KNOW you can buy old stamps through stamp dealers or collectors, to create a unique look for your mail made up of discontinued/vintage stamps?
Be sure to check out this year’s stamp program to browse the wide variety of Forever stamps currently available for purchase, including:
Love (2025) — Celebrate the universal experience of love with the latest stamp in this popular series, featuring the 1985 Untitled drawing by artist Keith Haring (1958–1990).
The Appalachian Trail — Take a hike from the stresses of modern life with The Appalachian Trail stamps, celebrating the century-old footpath that rambles from Maine to Georgia.
Betty White — Honor the life and legacy of actor, TV personality, and animal advocate Betty White (1922–2021), whose television appearances spanned the history of the medium and delighted generations of fans.
Battlefields of the American Revolution — As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, these stamps honor the battlefields where so many sacrificed to make our celebration possible.
Goodnight Moon — Revel in the nostalgia of this beloved children’s book with the Goodnight Moon Forever® stamps.
Baby Wild Animals — Delight in the charms of baby wild animals with these endearing stamps, featuring 10 different eye-popping designs.
And remember, Forever means forever. Buying Forever stamps in bulk now, saves you time and money later.