Do Postcard Stamps Expire? What to Know About Their Value

Many people wonder if postage stamps expire, especially as postal rates change. Understanding the enduring value of United States postage stamps can clarify these concerns.

Validity of United States Postage Stamps

United States postage stamps do not expire. Once acquired, they remain valid indefinitely for the postal service for which they were issued, if unused and in good condition. All postage stamps issued by the United States since 1860 are valid for postage from any point in the United States or from any other place where U.S. Mail service operates. This policy ensures a stamp represents a pre-paid service that does not diminish in value or usability over time, making their enduring validity a consistent feature of the postal system.

How Different Stamps Retain Their Value

The method by which stamps retain their value depends on their type: Forever stamps and denominated stamps. Forever stamps, introduced in 2007, are non-denominated First-Class stamps. They are always valid for the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce letter rate, irrespective of when purchased or if postal rates increase. Their value effectively adjusts with any changes in postage rates, making them a consistent option for standard letters.

In contrast, denominated stamps have a specific monetary value printed on them, such as “34 cents” or “55 cents.” While these stamps also do not expire, their face value remains constant. If the current postage rate for a mail piece exceeds the stamp’s denominated value, additional postage will be required to cover the difference. For example, an older 30-cent stamp would need supplementary postage if the current rate is higher.

Practical Considerations for Using Stamps

To ensure successful mail delivery, stamps must be unused, undamaged, and not defaced. This means they should not be torn, marked with pen, or previously canceled by postal services.

Multiple stamps can be combined to meet the current postage rate for a mail piece. This is particularly useful when using older, lower-denominated stamps to reach the required postage amount. Stamps should be affixed firmly to the upper right corner of the address side of the mail cover, without overlapping.

If a mail piece is sent with insufficient postage, several outcomes are possible. Mail with inadequate postage may be returned to the sender for additional funds. Alternatively, the postal service may attempt to deliver the mail to the recipient with a “postage due” notice, requiring the recipient to pay the difference before receiving the item. If there is no return address on the mail piece and the recipient refuses to pay, the item might be treated as undeliverable.