Martin Lewis urges Brits to ‘stock up’ on £1.65 essential before October as prices set to rise

Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert has issued a warning about an impending stamp price increase on October 7. The team at MSE, led by the BBC and ITV star, have detailed how the cost of first-class stamps is set to surge by a whopping 22 per cent from next month.

However, MSE has revealed a way to outsmart this rise. The prices for many of Royal Mail’s ‘Signed For’, ‘Special Delivery Guaranteed’ and ‘Tracked’ services will also see an upturn from Monday 7 October, along with the costs of sending parcels via first and second class.

Martin advised: “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.The new price will be £1.65. MSE stated: “So you may as well stock up now, even if it’s just for Christmas cards for the next few Christmases. ” MSE further added: “If you stock up on stamps now, be careful to avoid fakes.

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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,” it clarified, reports Birmingham Live.

The firm has affirmed that the price of second class stamps will stay at 85p, as they are presently capped until 2029 to maintain affordability in letter sending. Royal Mail expressed its efforts to keep price hikes minimal amidst dwindling letter volumes and inflationary pressures.

This week, Ofcom suggested that Royal Mail might be permitted to cease Saturday deliveries for second class letters as part of a service revamp.