Change of Address Checklist
- You can update your address quickly online using social networks, or email everyone in your contact list.
- Most magazine subscriptions have a change of address card enclosed with each issue; so do book clubs. For uninterrupted delivery, also notify any newspapers to which you subscribe.
- If you want to keep receiving coupons and offers, send in your change of address promptly
- Educational institutions and/or childcare facilities will need a correct address on file for important mailings.
- Update your address with your place of worship, especially if you subscribe to a newsletter or other publication.
- Avoid hassles next time you visit the pharmacy by updating your address promptly so it matches your drivers license.
- Your bank or credit union will need to be notified as well as your stock broker or financial manager. Remember your safe deposit box if you have one.
- You will need to legally change your address to ensure coverage at your new home.
- Your CPA or whoever does your taxes will need a current address on file for you so your preparation won't be delayed.
- Fill out the correct change of address form at the post office or online, and switch your PO Box as well if needed.
- Change your address with the DMV — you can get a ticket for failing to have a correct address on your license.
- If you receive benefits, inform the appropriate agency of your change of address as soon as possible.
- You'll need a current address on file for your taxes to be filed and refunds issued, as well as to receive important notices from the Department of Revenue.
- If you stay in the same city, usually transfer is easy. If you move further, they may return your deposit by mail upon disconnection of services.
- Again, if you move to an area serviced by another company, you will need to arrange for service to shut off and your deposit mailed to you.
- Arrange to have service shut off, and propane tanks disposed of if needed; any deposit can be sent to you by mail.
- Many companies will move your service for you on receipt of your new address. Otherwise, cancel service and find a new provider in your new locale.
- Depending on your location, you may be able to transfer service or may be forced to choose a new provider.
- This is usually handled either by the city or a local company. Find out what is expected at your new home and arrange service if needed.
- Especially if you are involved in a court case, your lawyer will need your current mailing address. Notify the courts as well if needed.
- All your doctors (pediatrician, family physicians, specialists) will need your new contact information. Ask for a referral to a new doctor if you are moving far.
- Your dentist and orthodontist should have your address updated in your records so they can mail you reminder cards. Ask for a referral if needed.
- If you receive medication or medical supplies (or anything else) by mail on a regular basis, change your address promptly so you don't miss a shipment.
- You can ask for a referral to a vet near your new home, and also obtain your pets' records. Make sure all tags are up to date, and notify shippers if you get meds for them by mail.
- Any institution which is currently financing a loan for you will need your new address. So will a mortgage holder or car lot.
- These must have a current address on file and you will need to be careful not to miss any payments.
- If you are staying in the area, give them your new address. If not, shop for a new provider.
- Give them your new address if you will still be close enough for them to provide services. If not, find a new one.
- Find out if your current provider can come to your new home, or seek a new provider as soon as possible for a smooth transition.
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Your change of address is a bit more complicated than simply going to the post office and filling out a form. All the official change of address form does is make sure your mail is forwarded to your new mailing address. It doesn't inform people or companies that you have moved. The sheer number of notifications that must be made can seem staggering. But if you plan ahead, your move will go smoothly. Some of the most important items in the following checklist can be handled with a quick phone call; for others, have simple address labels made up and mail out postcards letting companies or people know you've moved.
Tips
The farther away you move from your current address, the more important it is to quickly process your change of address. The sooner all of your records match, the sooner you can have peace of mind knowing that you are receiving all your mail in a timely manner.
Change of Address Checklist Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to change address for everything?
The easiest way to change your address for everything is to create a comprehensive checklist and tackle it systematically. Here are some steps to follow:
- Start with the USPS: Change your address online through the USPS website, which allows you to update your mailing address in just a few minutes.
- Notify Utility Companies: Contact your gas, water, electricity, and internet providers.
- Update Financial Institutions: Inform your bank, credit card companies, and any investment accounts.
- Contact Insurance Providers: Notify health, auto, and home insurance companies.
- Inform Government Agencies: Update your address with the DMV and IRS.
- Don’t Forget Subscriptions: Update your address with magazines, newspapers, and other subscription services.
By following this checklist, you can ensure that all important parties are informed of your new address.
What happens if I don’t update my address? (Hint: It’s more than just missing mail!)
Failing to update your address can lead to several complications beyond just missing mail. Here are some potential issues:
- Identity Theft Risk: Important documents may end up in the wrong hands, increasing the risk of identity theft.
- Legal Issues: You may miss critical legal notices or court summons, leading to serious repercussions.
- Service Interruptions: Utility services may be disconnected if bills are sent to an old address.
- Tax Complications: The IRS may send tax documents or refunds to the wrong location.
Updating your address promptly helps maintain communication with essential services and safeguards your personal information.
What should you not forget when you change your address?
When changing your address, it's easy to overlook some important notifications. Here’s what you should not forget:
- Family and Friends: Let them know your new address for personal correspondence.
- Healthcare Providers: Update your information with doctors and health insurance.
- Schools or Educational Institutions: Notify any schools or universities if you have children or are enrolled yourself.
- Online Shopping Accounts: Update addresses on platforms like Amazon or eBay.
- Memberships and Clubs: Don’t forget about gym memberships or local clubs that may need your new details.
Being thorough ensures that you won't miss important communications!
Who needs to be notified when you change your address?
When changing your address, it's essential to notify a variety of parties to ensure smooth transitions. Key notifications include:
- United States Postal Service (USPS): This is crucial for forwarding mail from your old address.
- Utility Companies: Gas, electricity, water, and internet providers need updates to avoid service disruptions.
- Banks and Financial Institutions: Update your bank accounts and credit cards to avoid billing issues.
- Insurance Providers: Notify health, auto, and home insurance companies for accurate coverage.
- Government Agencies: Such as the DMV for vehicle registration and voter registration offices.
- Healthcare Providers: Doctors and hospitals should have your current information for records.
- Subscriptions and Memberships: Magazines, online subscriptions, and local clubs also need to be informed.
Is it better to change address at post office or online?
Changing your address can be done either at the post office or online through the USPS website. Here are some considerations for each option:
-
Online Change of Address:
- Quick and convenient; takes just minutes.
- Allows you to manage multiple addresses easily.
- You receive instant confirmation via email.
-
In-Person at Post Office:
- Ideal if you prefer face-to-face assistance or have questions.
- You can get help with additional services like temporary forwarding.
Overall, changing your address online is usually faster and easier; however, choose the method that best suits your comfort level.
What’s the #1 thing people forget when changing their address?
The #1 thing people often forget when changing their address is notifying their friends and family. While it might seem less critical compared to banks or utilities, keeping loved ones updated ensures they can reach you easily. Additionally, consider these common oversights:
- Online Shopping Accounts: Many forget to update their addresses on sites like Amazon or eBay.
- Subscriptions: Magazine subscriptions often go unnoticed during an address change.
- Local Services: If you use any local services like cleaners or landscapers, inform them as well.
Creating a comprehensive list of all contacts can help prevent missing this important step.
How can I change my address immediately?
Yes! To change your address immediately, follow these steps:
- Visit the USPS Website: Go to the official USPS Change of Address page.
- Fill Out the Online Form: Provide necessary details such as old and new addresses along with personal identification information.
- Pay the Fee (if applicable): There is typically a small fee for identity verification when changing online (around $1).
- Receive Confirmation: After submitting the form, you'll receive an email confirmation almost instantly.
- Notify Other Parties Promptly: After updating with USPS, quickly inform banks, utilities, insurance companies, etc., either via phone or email for immediate changes.
This process ensures that you can start receiving mail at your new location without delay.
Can I change my mailing address for free?
Yes, you can change your mailing address for free by filing a request directly at a local post office using a PS Form 3575. Here’s how:
- Visit Your Local Post Office: Ask for a Change of Address form (PS Form 3575).
- Complete the Form: Fill out both old and new addresses along with personal information required on the form.
- Submit the Form: Hand it over to the postal worker at the counter; there is no fee for this method!
However, if you choose to change it online via the USPS website, there will be a nominal fee (around $1) for identity verification purposes.