Quick answer: At the USPS First-Class Mail 1-ounce letter rate of 82¢ effective July 12, 2026, postage value for 100 standard 1-ounce letters is $82; 500 is $410; and 1,000 is $820. These calculations assume one Forever Stamp per eligible 1-ounce letter.
Last updated: October 8, 2026.
2026 postage cost by letter volume
| Letters | Rate per eligible 1 oz letter | Total postage value |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | $0.82 | $82.00 |
| 250 | $0.82 | $205.00 |
| 500 | $0.82 | $410.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.82 | $820.00 |
| 2,500 | $0.82 | $2,050.00 |
The formula
Number of eligible 1-ounce letters × $0.82 = postage value. For example, 1,000 × $0.82 = $820.
When this calculation does not apply
The simple calculation is for eligible First-Class Mail 1-ounce letters. A heavier letter, nonmachinable letter, large envelope or another mail class can require different postage. Packaging format—coil, booklet or sheet—does not by itself determine the postage required by the finished mailpiece.
Budgeting after a rate change
USPS historical data shows the 1-ounce letter rate was 78¢ from July 13, 2025 and rose to 82¢ on July 12, 2026. For 1,000 eligible letters, that changed postage value from $780 to $820, a $40 increase per 1,000 pieces.
Primary sources
Use this page for planning, then verify the finished mailpiece and current requirements with USPS. PostageGrid is an independent retailer and is not the U.S. Postal Service.
Frequently asked questions
How much postage value is needed for 1,000 standard 1-ounce letters in 2026?
At 82¢ per eligible 1-ounce First-Class Mail letter, 1,000 letters represent $820 in postage value.
Can I use this calculation for every envelope?
No. Weight, dimensions, shape and machinability can change the postage requirement. The 82¢ calculation applies to eligible 1-ounce First-Class Mail letters.
Does buying stamps in coils, booklets or sheets change the required postage?
No. Package format affects handling and inventory workflow, but the finished mailpiece determines the postage required.