Change of Address Checklist
By Nicole Nichols-West / Dec 25, 2019 / 37 tasks
Personal
- 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.
Finance
- 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.
Government
- 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.
Utilities
- 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.
Offices
- 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.
Creditors/service providers
- 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.
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.
