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Money expert Martin Lewis has issued UK households with some advice ahead of a rise in price of first-class stamps. The Money Saving Expert (MSE) has warned Brits that the change is set to come in on October 7, and it will see the stamps rise in price by 22 per cent, to £1.65.
The cost of many of Royal Mail’s ‘Signed For’, ‘Special Delivery Guaranteed’ and ‘Tracked’ services will also increase on this date, as will the cost of sending parcels by first and second class. Despite this, MSE says you can beat the rise, Birmingham Live reports.
Martin Lewis said: “For years, every time stamps go up in price I’ve suggested people stock up and bulk-buy in advance, as provided the stamp doesn’t have a price on it and instead just says the postage class, it’s still valid after the hike. So you may as well stock up now, even if it’s just for Christmas cards for the next few Christmases.”
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MSE added: “If you stock up on stamps now, be careful to avoid fakes. Buy from reputable high street outlets and, where possible, hang onto your receipt. Stamps are also available directly from the Royal Mail online shop (though here you need to spend at least £50 to get free delivery).
“In April, Royal Mail paused the £5 penalty for anyone who receives a letter with a fake stamp on it while it takes fresh action against counterfeits. However, you may still be charged if you use a counterfeit stamp when sending something.”
The company confirmed that second class stamps will remain at the price of 85p, as these are currently capped until 2029 in an effort to keep the sending of letters affordable. Royal Mail said it has tried to keep price increases as low as possible in the face of declining letter volumes and inflationary pressures.
Ofcom said this week that Royal Mail could be allowed to drop Saturday deliveries for second class letters under an overhaul of the service.
