Postage Increase Takes Effect

The U.S. Postal Service raised the price of a first class postage stamp to 49 cents. The 3-cent increase took place on Sunday.

A book of first-class, one-ounce stamps now costs $9.80.

The rate increase is supposed to boost the USPS' revenue by $2.8 billion in two years to recoup losses suffered in 2008 and 2011. 

First class stamps aren’t the only thing that went up. Here’s a complete rundown on the increases:

•  Letters (1 oz.) — 3-cent increase to 49 cents

•  Letters additional ounces — 1-cent increase to 21 cents

•  Letters to all international destinations (1 oz.) — $1.15

•   Postcards — 1-cent increase to 34 cents