The crossed-out “FOREVER” is part of the stamp’s printed design and security features on certain newer Forever Stamp issues. It is not an expiration mark and does not mean the stamps will expire or lose their postage value after a specific date, including December 2026.

These are genuine Forever Stamps and remain valid for the applicable standard First-Class letter postage. Even if USPS increases postage rates in the future, a Forever Stamp you already have can still be used for the applicable postage.

The crossed-out appearance may look different from older Forever Stamps, but it does not affect the stamp’s validity or usability. In short, the crossed-out “FOREVER” is a design and security feature—not an expiration date.