2026 planning calculator: Multiply the number of eligible 1-ounce First-Class Mail letters by the applicable USPS rate. Effective July 12, 2026, the stamped 1-ounce letter rate is $0.82 and the metered 1-ounce letter rate is $0.78.
Calculator formulas
Stamped letters: number of eligible 1-ounce letters × $0.82
Metered letters: number of eligible 1-ounce letters × $0.78
2026 quick calculator table
| Letters | Stamped at 82¢ | Metered at 78¢ | Metered difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | $41.00 | $39.00 | $2.00 |
| 100 | $82.00 | $78.00 | $4.00 |
| 250 | $205.00 | $195.00 | $10.00 |
| 500 | $410.00 | $390.00 | $20.00 |
| 1,000 | $820.00 | $780.00 | $40.00 |
| 2,500 | $2,050.00 | $1,950.00 | $100.00 |
| 5,000 | $4,100.00 | $3,900.00 | $200.00 |
Important: postage method is not the whole cost comparison
The 4¢ per-piece difference between the USPS stamped and metered 1-ounce letter rates does not mean a postage meter automatically saves a business money overall. A complete decision can include equipment rental or subscription costs, supplies, staff workflow, mail volume and the eligibility of the finished mailpiece.
Commercial-mail thresholds are different
USPS states that stamped or metered single-piece First-Class Mail has no minimum quantity. Presorted or automation First-Class Mail generally requires at least 500 pieces. USPS Marketing Mail generally requires at least 200 pieces or 50 pounds and has additional preparation, permit, address-quality and eligibility requirements.
Related data
Primary sources
Updated October 8, 2026. This tool provides planning arithmetic, not a postage-eligibility determination or PostageGrid product-price quote. Verify the finished mailpiece with USPS.