How to Change Your Mailing Address When You Move

When you move, it’s easy to get caught up in unpacking and setting up your new home – and forget about updating your mailing address. But skipping this step can mean missing important bills, tax documents, or packages. Fortunately, changing your address with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is quick, whether you do it online or in person. Here’s exactly how to do it, plus who else to notify so nothing slips through the cracks.

How to change your mailing address online

The easiest and most convenient way to change your mailing address is to do it online. Here’s the process for changing your address online when moving into a new home:

1. Go to the USPS Change of Address website
2. Select the proper form for an individual, family, or business move.
3. Verify your identity with a code or link that’s sent to your cell phone.
4. Pay the verification fee.
5. If the verification is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation code, which can be used to change or cancel your request.
6. If you’re unable to verify your identity, you’ll receive instructions and a barcode, which you’ll need to take to a post office location along with a valid photo ID.

How to change your mailing address in person

If the online option doesn’t work out or you simply prefer to complete the process at a physical location, this option is also available. To change your address in person, simply:

1. Visit a local post office with an acceptable photo ID and other necessary documents.
2. Ask for a Mover’s Guide packet, which includes PS Form 3575.
3. Fill out and submit the form with your photo ID.
4. Once your identity has been verified, your change of address request will be processed.

Special cases requiring in-person changes:

• For children under 18: Bring a birth certificate.
• For business moves: Bring a notarized letter, power of attorney, or a signed letter on company letterhead.
• For U.S. military moves: Both in-person and online options are available.

Timing and mail forwarding details

• You can schedule your change of address up to 30 days before your move.
  
• USPS will forward most First-Class Mail for 12 months, but periodicals are forwarded for only 60 days.
  
• Some packages, especially from private carriers like UPS or FedEx, are not automatically forwarded – you’ll need to update your address directly with them.

Who should I notify about my address change?

Once you’ve updated your address with USPS, you’ll still need to let other organizations know so your mail, bills, and services aren’t disrupted. Here are the key places to update your information after a move.

Government agencies:

• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
• Social Security Administration
• Local election office
  

Financial institutions:

• Banks and credit card companies
• Investment accounts
• Insurance providers

Services and subscriptions:

• Utilities (electric, water, gas, internet)
• Streaming services and online shopping accounts
• Magazines, newspapers, and memberships

FAQ about changing your mailing address

How much does it cost to change your mailing address?

Online changes require a $1.25 fee for identity verification. Changing it in person at the post office is free.

Does changing my address through USPS automatically change it for other agencies?

No. USPS only handles your mail. Even if you update your information at the post office, You still need to update your address with other agencies, companies, and subscriptions.

Is there a difference between mail forwarding and change of address?

• “Change of address” refers to the request you make to the USPS to change your mailing address. 
• Mail forwarding is the action taken by the postal service to meet that request.

What mail cannot be forwarded?

Standard mail, like advertisements and catalogs, is not forwarded unless requested by the mailer.

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