Do Stamps Go Out of Date? | Latest Royal Mail Update!

Have you come across old stamps at the back of a drawer and wondered if they’re still valid? With recent changes introduced by Royal Mail, many people across the UK are asking the same question.

Understanding whether stamps go out of date is now more important than ever. Since the introduction of barcoded stamps, older, non-barcoded stamps have become subject to new rules.

In this blog, you’ll find clear answers on what’s changed, how it affects you, and what steps to take next. Stay informed and ensure you don’t lose money on unusable postage.

What Is Changing with Royal Mail Stamps in 2025?

Royal Mail is phasing out traditional stamps without barcodes and replacing them with modern barcoded versions.

This change aims to improve efficiency, security, and the range of services offered. The transformation began in 2023 but remains relevant in 2025 as the swap-out scheme continues.

Barcoded stamps are now standard for all everyday postage, and their introduction represents a significant shift in how the UK handles its mail.

If you still have non-barcoded stamps, you’ll need to understand the implications and act accordingly to stay compliant.

What Makes Barcoded Stamps Different from Older Ones?

Barcoded stamps are more than just visually different, they integrate technology with traditional mailing. Each new stamp features a unique barcode that connects to the Royal Mail app, offering services like delivery updates and personalised content.

The barcode serves as a security feature, helping to prevent fraud and ensure mail traceability. Unlike older stamps that could be reused fraudulently, barcoded versions make misuse much harder.

The barcode also facilitates automated sorting, reducing delays and improving accuracy in deliveries.

Barcoded stamps reflect Royal Mail’s shift toward modern, tech-enabled postal services, setting a new standard for mail handling.

Do Stamps Go Out of Date?

Yes, traditional stamps in the UK can go out of date, particularly those without barcodes. Until recently, postage stamps didn’t have an expiration, but with Royal Mail’s updated policy, non-barcoded “everyday” stamps are no longer valid for mailing.

This means that if you still possess stamps featuring Her Late Majesty The Queen on a plain background and without a barcode, they can no longer be used for sending letters.

However, barcoded stamps or specific types of commemorative stamps remain valid. The expiry doesn’t depend on age, but rather on the barcode presence.

So, while stamps historically didn’t expire, Royal Mail has introduced functionality-based expiration due to technological advancements. Therefore, always check your stamps before using them to avoid failed deliveries or penalties.

Can You Still Use Old First and Second-Class Stamps?

You can no longer use old first and second-class stamps that lack a barcode. Royal Mail’s update invalidated these types of non-barcoded stamps as of 31 July 2023.

Any attempt to use these stamps after the cut-off date could result in the mail being returned or surcharged. However, all barcoded stamps, regardless of issue date, remain fully valid. Special stamps like Christmas and commemorative designs without barcodes are also exempt from this rule and are still usable.

If you have a collection of old stamps, consider reviewing their design and barcode presence. If they lack barcodes and are everyday stamps, you should swap them out through Royal Mail’s official scheme to avoid postage issues.

When Is the Deadline for Using Non-Barcoded Stamps?

The final deadline for using non-barcoded stamps was 31 July 2023. Initially, the cut-off date was 31 January 2023, but due to public concern and logistical issues, Royal Mail extended the deadline by six months, offering users more time to adjust.

After 31 July 2023, non-barcoded everyday stamps became invalid. However, Royal Mail did not close the door entirely.

The Stamp Swap Out Scheme remains open, allowing you to exchange these outdated stamps for barcoded alternatives.

This deadline marked a shift in how UK postage is handled, so it’s important to check any stamps you find and act promptly. Whether you’re an individual or a business, using out-of-date stamps can now result in mail being returned or extra charges.

How Can You Swap Out Your Old Stamps?

If you’ve discovered old, non-barcoded stamps at home, don’t toss them out just yet. Royal Mail offers a simple way to swap them for valid ones.

Getting the Swap Out Form

To begin the process, you’ll need a Stamp Swap Out form. You can:

• Print it from Royal Mail’s website
• Request one online
• Call 03457 740740 to have it posted
• Pick one up at a Royal Mail Customer Service Point
• Collect it from selected Post Offices

Filling and Sending the Form

Once you have the form:

• Fill in your details and attach the non-barcoded stamps
• If under £200 in value, write Freepost SWAP OUT on the envelope
• If over £200, use the Bulk Stamp Swap Out form and send to: Royal Mail, Swap Out, Tallents House, Edinburgh EH12 9PB

You do not need to visit a Post Office to complete this process, they provide forms but do not handle exchanges. The process is free, and there’s no limit to when you can initiate the swap. However, it’s recommended you act quickly to avoid delays, especially during peak seasons.

What Happens If You Post a Letter with an Expired Stamp?

If you send a letter using an expired, non-barcoded stamp after 31 July 2023, Royal Mail may take the following actions:

• Your item could be returned to sender
• The recipient may receive the item but be asked to pay a surcharge
• It might experience delays in sorting and delivery

Mail without valid postage is classed as underpaid. The Royal Mail may apply the current postage rate plus a handling fee before it reaches the recipient.

What You Might Face?

• Extra postage charge for the recipient
• Delayed or undelivered mail
• Risk of mail being discarded if sender info is missing

If you’re unsure about a stamp’s validity, it’s always best to check beforehand or use the stamp swap scheme. Prevention is better than facing potential delays or charges.

Could You Face a Surcharge or Penalty?

Yes, using an expired non-barcoded stamp on your mail can lead to unexpected surcharges. When Royal Mail identifies outdated stamps, they treat them as insufficient postage.

This means the recipient may have to pay the difference in postage along with an additional handling fee before the item is delivered. In some cases, the item could be delayed, returned to a sorting centre, or even held if there’s no return address provided.

This can cause significant inconvenience, especially if the mail is time-sensitive, such as important documents, invoices, or invitations. To avoid these complications, it’s essential to ensure all your stamps are valid before posting.

Staying informed about Royal Mail’s current postage requirements not only prevents delays but also saves you and your recipients from unnecessary hassle and charges.

Always double-check your stamps or consider swapping out outdated ones through the official Royal Mail process.

Which Stamps Are Exempt from Expiry Rules?

Not every stamp has been affected by the barcode transition. Some stamps remain valid and usable, even if they don’t have a barcode.

These include:

• Christmas stamps
• Commemorative stamps featuring artwork or special events
• All barcoded stamps
• Special edition stamps, such as those with themed illustrations or celebrating anniversaries

These stamps are classified differently from “everyday” definitive stamps, which featured Her Majesty The Queen on a plain background.

As long as the stamp falls into one of the exempt categories, you can continue using it without worry.

Valid Stamps Still Accepted

• Commemorative stamps with designs such as flowers, historical figures, or royal events
• Christmas-themed stamps, regardless of year
• Stamps featuring King Charles III issued in recent updates
• Any stamp issued after 2022 that includes a barcode

If you are unsure about the status of your stamp, compare it to Royal Mail’s online stamp checker or consult with a local Post Office. Verifying stamp types ensures you won’t face posting issues or additional charges.

How to Check If Your Stamps Are Still Valid?

Not sure if your old stamps are still valid for use? With changes introduced by Royal Mail, it’s important to verify your stamps before posting to avoid delays or surcharges. Thankfully, checking stamp validity is simple if you follow a few key steps.

Steps to Identify a Valid Stamp

• Examine the Design: Look closely at the stamp. If it shows The Queen’s profile on a plain background with no barcode or extra graphics, it’s probably invalid.
• Look for a Barcode: Current valid stamps include a barcode, either beside or below the image. It may appear vertically or horizontally and is often perforated.
• Use Royal Mail Resources: Visit the Royal Mail website for visual guides and information, or contact customer service for confirmation.
• Inquire at Your Local Branch: You can also visit a Customer Service Point or Post Office for help identifying your stamp’s status, though they don’t process swaps.

Taking a few minutes to check your stamps can save time, avoid extra charges, and ensure your mail reaches its destination without issue.

What Should Businesses Know About the Stamp Changes?

Businesses using stamps for bulk mail must review their current stock. Using expired non-barcoded stamps can result in delays and added charges, harming customer satisfaction.

Franking machine users are not impacted by these changes directly but must keep their machine rates up to date.

Bulk stamp users should:

• Check stamp stocks for barcodes
• Exchange all invalid stamps via the swap scheme
• Train staff on recognising valid stamps

Retailers selling stamps must also stop distributing non-barcoded ones and switch to compliant alternatives to avoid penalties and confusion.

Conclusion

The shift to barcoded stamps marks a major change in UK postage practices. Non-barcoded stamps are no longer valid for mailing, but Royal Mail’s Swap Out Scheme ensures that your money isn’t wasted.

Staying informed about these updates helps you avoid delays, surcharges, and inconvenience. Whether you’re a personal user or business, take action now, check your stamps, use the swap scheme, and embrace the new barcoded system to stay ahead. Don’t let your stamps go to waste. Use them, swap them, or lose them.

FAQs About Do Stamps Go Out of Date

What is the Royal Mail’s official policy on expired stamps?

Royal Mail states that non-barcoded everyday stamps are no longer valid for postage. You must swap them out using their official scheme.

Can you use mixed stamps (old and new) on one envelope?

No, using an expired non-barcoded stamp with a valid one will still invalidate the postage. All stamps used must be valid.

How long does the stamp swap process take?

There’s no official timeline, but Royal Mail recommends sending in your swap forms early. Processing times can vary depending on volume.

Are barcoded stamps trackable by default?

No, they do not offer tracking like signed or tracked delivery. However, they enable future services via the Royal Mail app.

Is there a fee for swapping old stamps?

No, the Stamp Swap Out Scheme is free. Postage for sending the form and stamps is also covered with “Freepost SWAP OUT”.

What happens to unused stamp collections after the deadline?

If the stamps are non-barcoded and not exempt, they lose their postal value. They may still hold collectible or sentimental value.

Where can you get the stamp swap out form?

You can print it from Royal Mail’s website, request it online, call their helpline, or collect it from delivery offices or Post Offices.