Using the post office in GA is about to cost more. Here’s when and why

If you use your Georgia post office for mail or shipping, some new changes are about to happen for 2026.

But why?

“As part of the Postal Service’s network modernization and transformation plan, these proposed changes will support creation of a revitalized organization capable of achieving its public service mission — providing a nationwide, integrated network for the delivery of mail and packages at least six days a week — in a cost-effective and financially sustainable manner over the long term, just as the U.S. Congress has intended,” according to the press release on the USPS website.

The USPS makes these changes on a yearly basis to keep up with market conditions and this year is no different, especially considering the USPS saw a net loss of $9 billion in 2025.

Here’s what else to know about the changes starting Jan 18 this year:

What changes are new this year?

Here are the new changes for 2026:

• New rule impacting delivery timing of documents, effective Dec. 24
• Increase to shipping fees, effective Jan. 18
• Potential postage stamp increase

How will the changes impact deliveries?

Although the new rule impacting the timing of documents became effective on Dec. 24, 2025, there are some things to know for 2026 deliveries. The new rule further clarifies that the date on postmarks match the date when the mail piece was processed, ultimately stating that the postmark date won’t necessarily be the same date that it was dropped off.

So, Georgians that are sending in mail-in ballots, bills or other time-sensitive mail might get a later postmark date. But there is a way around that.

If customers want a postmark date to match the date of mailing, you should visit your local post office and request a manual postmark. There is no extra cost to do this, according to the Federal Register.

How much will shipping increase?

Here’s a look at the shipping cost increases:

• 6.6 percent for Priority Mail service
• 5.1 percent for Priority Mail Express service
• 7.8 percent for USPS Ground Advantage
• 6.0 percent for Parcel Select

How much will stamps increase?

According to a news release in Nov., the USPS said they will not be increasing stamp prices in early 2026. However, later in the year that could change. The last increase was in July 2025 with an increase from $0.73 to $0.78.

Do you have any more questions? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

Chelsea Madden

The Telegraph

Chelsea is a service journalism reporter who began working for McClatchy in 2022. She was born and raised in Middle Georgia and lives in Forsyth. She attended Wesleyan College for undergrad and a few years after that, went to SCAD for an MFA in writing. Outside of work, Chelsea likes to watch Netflix, read books in the thriller genre and chase her toddler around.