New postage rates take effect today

The Governors of the U.S. Postal Service approved the new rate structure March 19; it is the service’s third increase in five years.

Among the rate changes:

Each additional ounce after the first ounce on a first-class envelope and other single pieces costs 17 cents, a decrease from 24 cents.

Presorted letters are 37.3 cents and flats are 69.9 cents for the first ounce and 17 cents for each additional ounce. Postcards cost 26 cents to send, up from 24 cents, and 24 cents if presorted. A 1-pound envelope sent priority mail is $4.60, flat-rate boxes sent priority are $8.95, and 1-pound packages sent parcel post are $4.50.

New 41-cent stamps, as well as 1-cent and 2-cent stamps, are available at all post offices and www.usps.com.