The cost to send a certified letter via USPS in 2025 depends on several components:
- First-Class postage for a 1-ounce letter: $0.69
- Certified Mail fee: $4.85 (flat fee regardless of weight or distance)
- Return Receipt fee (optional):
- Traditional Green Card: $4.10
- Electronic Return Receipt (PDF): $2.62
So, for a basic 1-ounce certified letter without a return receipt, the total cost is approximately $5.54 ($0.69 + $4.85). If you add a Return Receipt, the total can range from about $6.31 (with electronic receipt) to $9.64 (with the traditional green card) when mailed at the Post Office. Using online services like Certified Mail Labels to purchase postage and electronic delivery confirmation can reduce costs. For example, sending a 1-ounce certified letter with electronic delivery confirmation costs about $6.46, saving over $3 compared to the traditional method with a green card receipt
. Additional postage applies if the letter weighs more than 1 ounce, typically $0.28 to $0.29 per extra ounce up to 3.5 ounces
Summary of 2025 Certified Mail Costs for a 1-ounce letter
Service Component| Cost (USD)
---|---
First-Class Postage (1 oz)| $0.69
Certified Mail Fee| $4.85
Return Receipt (Green Card)| $4.10
Return Receipt (Electronic PDF)| $2.62
Electronic Delivery Confirmation| $0.95
- Total with Certified Mail + Electronic Delivery Confirmation: ~$6.46
- Total with Certified Mail + Traditional Return Receipt: ~$9.64
The USPS rate increase effective July 13, 2025, will raise some fees slightly, e.g., Certified Mail fee to $5.30 and Return Receipt Green Card to $4.40
. In conclusion, sending a certified letter costs at least about $5.54 for basic service, with additional fees for return receipts and extra postage depending on weight and options chosen. Using online services can reduce the cost significantly.
