Change of Address Guide
Everything you need to know about updating your address when moving to a new home.
Why Updating Your Address Is Important
Changing your address ensures you continue to receive important mail, avoid missed bills, maintain services, and protect your identity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the necessary steps.
USPS Change of Address
The first and most important step is to file an official change of address with the United States Postal Service (USPS).
Online (Recommended)
Visit USPS.com/move to complete the form online. There's a $1.10 identity verification fee when filing online.
In Person
Visit your local post office and request a Mover's Guide packet, which includes PS Form 3575. Fill it out and hand it to a postal worker.
By Mail
You can also print Form 3575 and mail it to the address listed on the form.
Important Notes:
- Mail forwarding typically begins within 7-10 business days of your request
- First-class mail is forwarded for 12 months, while periodicals are forwarded for 60 days
- You can choose between a permanent change (for moves) or temporary change (for extended vacations)
Government Agencies to Notify
DMV / Vehicle Registration
Update your driver's license and vehicle registration with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Most states require this within 30 days of moving.
- Visit your state's DMV website for specific requirements and deadlines
- Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.)
Voter Registration
Update your voter registration to ensure you can vote in your new district's elections.
- Register online at vote.gov
- Or visit your local county clerk's office or election board
Social Security Administration
If you receive Social Security benefits, Medicare, or other federal benefits, update your address with the SSA.
- Update online through your my Social Security account
- Call 1-800-772-1213
IRS
Ensure the IRS has your current address for tax refunds, notices, and other communications.
- File Form 8822, Change of Address, available on IRS.gov
- Or simply use your new address when filing your next tax return
Utilities and Services
Contact the following service providers to disconnect services at your old address and set them up at your new home:
Electric
Schedule disconnection and connection dates with your electric utility company.
Gas
Contact your natural gas provider to transfer or establish service.
Water/Sewer
Usually handled through your city or county utilities department.
Internet/Cable
Schedule transfer or new installation with your provider.
Phone
Update your address with your mobile carrier or landline provider.
Trash/Recycling
Set up service with your local waste management company.
Pro Tip:
Schedule utility disconnections for one day after your move-out date and connections for one day before your move-in date to ensure you have services during the entire moving process.
Financial Institutions and Insurance
Banking
Update your address with all banks and credit unions where you have accounts.
- Update through online banking, mobile app, by phone, or in person
- Order new checks with your updated address if needed
Credit Cards
Update your billing address with all credit card companies.
- Update through each card issuer's website or mobile app
- Call the customer service number on the back of each card
Insurance Providers
Update your address with all insurance companies and review your coverage needs.
- Auto insurance (may affect your rates based on new location)
- Homeowners/renters insurance (you'll need a new policy for your new home)
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
Investments & Retirement
Update your address with investment accounts and retirement plan administrators.
- Brokerage accounts (Fidelity, Charles Schwab, etc.)
- 401(k) or other employer retirement plans
- IRA accounts
Subscriptions and Memberships
Don't forget to update your address for these common subscriptions and memberships:
Magazines & Newspapers
Contact each publisher or update through your online account.
Subscription Boxes
Update shipping address for any subscription services (meal kits, beauty boxes, etc.).
Online Shopping
Update default addresses on Amazon, Walmart, Target, and other shopping sites.
Gym Memberships
Update billing address or transfer to a new location if moving far.
Streaming Services
Update billing address for Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc.
Loyalty Programs
Update address for airline miles, hotel points, and retail rewards programs.
Healthcare Providers
Update your address with all healthcare providers or find new ones in your area:
Primary Care Physician
Update your address or ask for recommendations for new doctors in your area.
Dentist
Update your address or find a new dentist in your new location.
Specialists
Update your address with any specialists you see regularly or get referrals to new ones.
Pharmacy
Transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy near your new home.
Veterinarian
Update your address or find a new vet for your pets in your new area.
Complete Change of Address Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you don't miss any important address updates:
Mail & Government
- USPS Change of Address
- Driver's License/ID
- Vehicle Registration
- Voter Registration
- Social Security Administration
- IRS/Tax Agencies
- Passport
Financial
- Banks/Credit Unions
- Credit Card Companies
- Loan Providers (Mortgage, Auto, Student)
- Investment Accounts
- Retirement Accounts
- PayPal/Venmo/Cash App
Insurance
- Health Insurance
- Auto Insurance
- Homeowners/Renters Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
Utilities & Services
- Electric
- Gas
- Water/Sewer
- Internet/Cable
- Phone
- Trash/Recycling
Tips for a Smooth Address Change
Start Early
Begin updating your address at least two weeks before your move. Some changes take time to process, and you want to ensure a smooth transition of services and mail.
Keep a Record
Maintain a spreadsheet or document listing all the places you've updated your address and the date you made the change. This helps you track what's been done and what still needs attention.
Update Online Accounts
Don't forget to update your address in your email signature, social media profiles, and any online marketplaces where you buy or sell items.
Notify Contacts Personally
Send an email or text to friends and family with your new address. Consider creating a digital change of address card to share with your personal contacts.
Need Help With Your Move?
Let LiftNHaul handle the heavy lifting while you focus on settling into your new home. Our professional moving services make relocating stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does mail forwarding last?
First-class mail is forwarded for 12 months, while periodicals are forwarded for 60 days. Marketing mail is not forwarded unless you pay for premium forwarding service.
Do I need to update my address with the IRS if I've already filed a change of address with USPS?
Yes, you should still update your address directly with the IRS. While some mail will be forwarded, it's important to ensure the IRS has your current address for tax notices, refunds, and other important communications.
How soon should I update my driver's license after moving?
Most states require you to update your driver's license within 30 days of moving. Check with your state's DMV for specific requirements, as some states may have different timeframes.
What's the difference between a temporary and permanent change of address?
A temporary change of address is used for situations where you'll be away from your permanent address for a period of time (up to 12 months) but plan to return. A permanent change of address is used when you're moving permanently to a new location.
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