Stamp prices jump 2 cents Monday to 41 cents
WASHINGTON <AP) — It will cost a bit more to mail letters and parcels starting Monday A first-class letter will go up 2 cents to 41 cents.
But there is also some good news — folks will be able to buy "forever" stamps that remain valid regardless of any future increase.
While the new rates take effect Monday, most post offices are closed on Sunday so officials say items dropped in a box that won't be collected until Monday should have the higher postage on them.
On the other hand, when rates change the agency usually allows a little leeway, and it doesn't plan a rash of returns for insufficient postage.
Postmaster General John Potter lias said that even with the higher prices the agency expects a deficit this year as it struggles to compete in a swiftly changing communications market.[/b]