With postage stamp price changes, multiple sellers, and even vintage options, it’s easy to have questions when buying postage stamps.
These Frequently Asked Questions cover purchasing real USPS stamps, from trusted sources like USPS.com, Amazon, Etsy, and eBay, to boutique shops
Q: Where can I buy postage for my invitations?
A: You can purchase genuine, current USPS postage from several sources:
- USPS Website – showcasing current designs.
- Local Post Offices – convenient, but limited options.
- Amazon – From USPS – These stamps from the USPS often offer older designs that are not currently available on the USPS site.
- Etsy – curated vintage sets for weddings and events.
- eBay – great selection, but only from reputable sellers.
- Costco / Sam’s Club – sometimes sell bulk rolls at discount.
Q: How much postage do I need?
A: To find the correct postage, you need to know the weight, size, and destination of your invitation or mailing. For a standard first-class letter, one Forever stamp covers the first ounce, and you’ll need additional stamps or postage for each ounce over that limit. For anything other than a standard letter (square or unusual envelopes), you can use the USPS Postage Price Calculator to find the exact cost.
Q. What kind of envelopes require extra postage?
A. If the envelope is over either 6⅛″ in height, 11½″ in width, or ¼″ in thickness, it gets bumped into the large envelope category (which requires extra postage and different rules apply to large envelopes).
Q: Are all of the stamps available on Amazon, Etsy, or eBay real?
A: It depends! You can purchase legitimate postage from reputable sellers on line. For example, the USPS brand is available on Amazon. Carefully check the reviews of consumers who have already purchased the stamps. If there are known issues, you can save yourself time by avoiding those sellers. Beware of listings far below face value — they’re often counterfeit. The old saying “if it’s too good to be true, it probably is”.
Q. How to spot counterfeit stamps?
A. The USPS has an excellent page outlining how to spot counterfeit stamps. Interestingly, as noted on their website, the most frequently encountered counterfeit stamp is the Flag Stamp
Q: How often do USPS stamp prices increase?
A: Recently, USPS has raised stamp prices once or twice a year. For example, the First-Class Forever stamp increased from $0.66 in 2023 to $0.78 in July 2025.
Q: Are vintage stamps still valid for mailing?
A: Yes! As long as a stamp is unused and uncanceled, it is still valid at face value. You’ll need to combine them to meet today’s current rates. There are several sites online selling unused vintage stamps that definitely can add charm to your mailing. The Little Postage House and Vintage Postage Stamps are a few that offer a great selection.