Beginning in January, it will cost residents more to mail letters to locations in the U.S., the first price change for First-Class mail stamps in more than 2 and a half years.

The new price – just a penny more – will increase to 45 cents, which goes into effect Jan. 22, 2012.

Other increases include:

• A 3-cent increase for postcards to 32 cents;

• A 5-cent increase for letters to Canada and Mexico at 85 cents;

• A 7-cent increase for letters to other international destinations to $1.05.

Prices are also expected to change for other mailing services, including standard mail, periodicals, package services and extra services.

The announcement does not affect Express Mail or Priority Mail prices.

“The overall price increase is small and is needed to help address our current financial crisis,” said Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe. “We continue to take actions within our control to increase revenue in other ways and to aggressively cut costs. To return to sound financial footing, we urgently need enactment of comprehensive, long-term legislation to provide the Postal Service with a more flexible business model.”

For business mailers, the announcement isn’t all bad, officials said.

Those who are First-Class Mail Presort customers, the second ounce for presorted letters will be free, when prices are implemented.

Additionally, the a 3-month pricing option will become available for renting PO boxes.

-Kendra Bolling