My husband and I own a trash business and I need to write a rate increase letter please help

The fewer competitors you have, the less eloquent the letter has to be, but I think it is a good idea to associate the increase with additional services and/or positive changes to the service that benefit the customer. Also, be sure your customer service staff is trained and prepared to deal with upset customers in a positive manner. It's all in how you spin it...

"Dear [Valued Customer]:

[ABC Trash] appreciates your business and hopes that you are satisfied with the service we provide. I am writing today to inform you that it has become necessary to increase our rates so that we may continue to provide the same excellent service [and additional service changes] you expect from [ABC Trash].

The $[X] rate increase will go into effect on [date] and be reflected in your next billing statement. If you have any questions, please call [phone number]. Thank you again for choosing [ABC Trash] for your disposal needs.

At your service,
[ABC Trash Owner]"