Center for Non-Profits - Non-Profit Postal Rate Increases Loom

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Non-Profit Postal Rate Increases Loom

In the next several months, non-profits will be facing two increases in postal rates for their standard and periodical mail. The first, set for October 4, 1998, is the last of a series of gradual increases enacted in 1993 as part of an overhaul in the way laws governing the subsidizing of non-profit postal rates. The second and more sizeable increase was recently announced by the U.S. Postal Service and will take effect January 10.

Barring unforeseen changes, basic non-profit rates for letter-sized mail (mail that measures 61/8" x 111/2" x 1/4" thick or smaller) will rise from 13.5 cents per piece to 13.8 cents in October and 16.9 cents per piece in January. Rates for "flats" (non-letter sized mail) will increase from 19.8 cents to 20.1 cents in October and 23.3 cents in January. Periodical rates will also rise. Discounts for pre-sorted or automated/barcoded mail will continue to be available.

The increases come despite the Post Office’s large profits in the last three years, and despite opposition from non-profit mailers, whose rates are rising by a larger percentage than commercial mailers’. For more information about the new rates, contact the Center.

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