Legitimate Ways Americans Can Save on Postage
With postage prices always rising, many people look for ways to buy stamps for less. A quick online search can make it seem like huge discounts are everywhere, but in reality, deeply discounted stamps are often counterfeit. The good news is that there are legitimate ways to lower your mailing costs. These savings are usually modest, but they’re safe, legal and effective when used correctly.
Below are the most reliable ways to buy stamps for less, or reduce what you spend on postage overall, without risking scams or invalid mail.
Buy Stamps in Bulk From Trusted Retailers
Buying stamps in larger quantities is one of the simplest ways to control costs. While this doesn’t always reduce the per-stamp price dramatically, it can prevent overspending later.
Warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club sometimes sell rolls or large packs of Forever stamps. When available, the per-stamp price may be slightly lower than buying individual books at other retailers. Even when the price is the same, buying in bulk reduces repeat purchases and protects you from future price increases.
Large retailers such as grocery stores, pharmacies and big-box stores typically sell stamps at face value. While not discounted, they are legitimate and convenient options that reduce the risk of turning to questionable sellers out of urgency.
Buy Forever Stamps Before Price Increases
One of the most effective ways to save money on stamps is to buy them before a postage rate increase. Forever stamps maintain their value for first-class letters even after prices go up.
If you know you send a consistent amount of mail each year—holiday cards, bills, invitations or business correspondence—purchasing stamps ahead of a scheduled increase locks in the lower rate. Over time, this can add up to meaningful savings without any added risk.
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Use Metered or Online Postage Instead of Stamps
Many people don’t realize that stamped letters often cost more than metered mail. USPS pricing frequently sets metered first-class letters at a slightly lower rate than letters mailed with traditional stamps.
Online postage services allow you to print postage directly onto envelopes at home. While these services may charge small subscription or transaction fees, frequent mailers can save money per letter. This option is especially useful for small businesses, home offices or anyone who sends regular mail.
This is one of the few ways to legitimately pay less per letter rather than simply managing when and how you buy stamps.
Use Credit Card Rewards or Cash-Back Programs
Another practical way to lower your effective stamp cost is through rewards. Paying for stamps with a cash-back credit card or rewards program can return a small percentage of your purchase.
While this doesn’t change the stamp price itself, it reduces what you ultimately spend. Over the course of a year, rewards from everyday purchases—including stamps—can offset mailing costs in a safe, legitimate way.
Reduce the Number of Stamps You Need
Sometimes the best way to save on stamps is to use fewer of them. Switching to paperless billing, combining mailings or choosing postcard rates when appropriate can significantly reduce postage expenses.
For packages, using online shipping platforms that offer commercial rates can lower costs compared to retail counter pricing. While not stamps, these options reduce overall mailing expenses and are worth considering if you ship items regularly.
Be Cautious With Online “Discount” Stamp Sellers
Many websites and social media ads claim to sell stamps at steep discounts, often 20% to 50% off. These offers are rarely legitimate. USPS does not authorize deep discounts on postage, and counterfeit stamps are a growing problem in the U.S.
Buying fake stamps can result in returned mail, lost deliveries or even legal trouble in extreme cases. Saving a few dollars isn’t worth the risk.
What to Look For to Avoid Stamp Scams
When shopping for stamps, watch for these red flags:
- Prices significantly below face value (especially 20% or more off).
- Ads on social media promoting “limited-time” stamp deals.
- Sellers claiming “USPS surplus” or “government overstock.”
- No clear return policy or customer service contact.
- Newly created online stores or third-party marketplace sellers with little history.
- Pressure tactics like countdown timers or urgent messaging.
- Unusual payment methods or requests.
- Poor-quality images, blurry printing or inconsistent stamp designs.
There are legitimate ways to buy stamps for less but they’re practical, and don't advertise huge discounts. Buying ahead of price increases, using metered postage, purchasing in bulk from trusted sellers and reducing overall mailing needs are the safest strategies. When it comes to stamps, modest savings done the right way will always beat risky “discounts” that cost more in the long run.