Postal Service's red ink for 12th year as letter mail drops

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Postal Service is reporting a financial loss for the 12th straight year, citing declining mail volume as well as the costs of its pension and health care obligations.

The Postal Service is awaiting a report ordered by President Donald Trump to address the agency's "unsustainable financial path."

Postal officials expect finances next year to be helped somewhat by another strong holiday season of package deliveries and from higher stamp prices, which take effect in January. A first-class stamp will increase from 50 cents to 55 cents.

The Postal Service reported a loss of $3.9 billion for the budget year that ended Sept. 30. That compares with a $2.7 billion loss in 2017.

Increases in package delivery were unable to offset drop-offs in letter mail.