Increased Postage Costs

The US Postal Service increased rates in early January 2006.  When reporting about postage rates, the media focuses on the cost of mailing a letter that weighs less than an ounce and the 37 to 39 cent increase.  Almost none of the TMA’s mailings involve an envelope or package that weighs less than an ounce.  The rate increase impacts every class of mail and it also impacts all of the fees that are charged by the US Postal Service.  We pay an annual fee which allows us to use the not-for-profit bulk mailing rate and that has increased.  Our international mailing rates have increased substantially.  When a person signs up for membership in the TMA, they are mailed a new member packet.  This packet contains the latest publication of our newsletter (journal), a membership directory, and articles and information about the neuroimmunologic disorders and about the Association.  Before the rate increase, we paid $1.84 to mail this package to our members in the US; the new cost is $2.07.  Postage is a significant cost for the TMA, and this increase will have a substantial impact on the Association’s operating expenses.  With this rate increase in mind, it becomes increasingly important for our members to maintain accurate information in our database.  Please keep your information current.  If you move, please provide us with your new postal address.  We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this important matter.