Inflation protection — why it matters | Brian Loy Reno-Gazette-Journal 7 hrs ago Brian Loy Do you remember when the Post Office introduced Forever Stamps in 2007? They’re a non-denominated postage stamp used to mail first-class letters regardless of the current postal rate. Since 2007, the postage rate has increased from 41 cents to 58 cents come August. That’s a 41% hike, or an average of 2.5% increase annually. Fifty years ago, a first-class stamp cost 8 cents — today’s price is almost seven times higher. There’s a good chance postage rates will continue to increase “forever.” This is a basic illustration of inflation — a very hot topic right now. It’s important to understand why it matters and how it may factor in your financial planning and investment decisions.