Change of Address Checklist: Where To Start?

Change of Address is Important - But Doesn't Have to be Stressful

Moving can be a stressful experience, but one thing that doesn’t need to be stressful is ensuring you’ve notified all the right parties about your change of address. Updating your address with the correct organizations, businesses, and individuals is essential to ensure that your mail, services, and records follow you to your new home. This change of address checklist made by our experts at Manly Moving will help you stay on top of everything so you can focus on other aspects of your move.

Why You Need a Change of Address Checklist

A move isn’t just about packing up your belongings – it’s also about ensuring that all your important documents, services, and subscriptions are properly transferred to your new address. If you miss updating any vital addresses, you might experience delays, lost mail, and confusion about service billing. This checklist will help ensure that your transition is seamless. Let’s start with this checklist of placed to change address when moving and see how to change the address!

1. Government & Legal Organizations

Start the address change with the most important – official records. Here’s who you need to notify:

• U.S. Postal Service (USPS): The first step is to notify the USPS, so they can forward your mail to your new address. The USPS change of address is really easy – you can do this easily online or at your local post office. Make sure that USPS passport appointment is scheduled on time.
• IRS: Update your address with the IRS by filling out Form 8822. If you’re due for a tax refund, this will help ensure it gets sent to the right place.
• Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Update your driver’s license, car insurance and vehicle registration. Many states allow you to do this online.
• Voter Registration: If you’re moving to a new state or county, update your voter registration to ensure you can vote in upcoming elections.
• Social Security Administration: If you’re receiving Social Security or Medicare, inform them of your new address.

If you’re relocating to a new permanent address, it’s crucial to notify the appropriate government agencies first and then continue with the rest.

2. Financial Institutions & Creditors

Make sure your finances stay intact by updating your address with the following:

• Banks & Credit Unions: Notify your bank to ensure your statements and cards are sent to your new address. This is also the time to review your accounts and sign up for paperless billing if you haven’t already.
• Credit Card Companies: Address updates are also essential for credit cards, so you’re always aware of new charges and payments.
• Loan Providers: If you have student loans, mortgages, or personal loans, inform these organizations about your address change to avoid missing important notifications.
• Investment & Retirement Accounts: Update your address with any investment companies or retirement funds (401(k), IRAs) to make sure you receive statements and tax forms.

3. Utility & Service Providers

Don’t forget about the essential services that keep your home running smoothly:

• Electric, Gas, Water, and Sewer: Contact your utility providers well in advance to transfer your accounts to your new address.
• Trash & Recycling: Schedule your service at your new address, so you’re not left with overflowing bins on moving day.
• Internet, Cable, and Phone Companies: Notify your internet and cable providers about the move and set up the transfer of service. Many providers require advance notice for installations at the new home.

When transferring utilities and service providers to your new home, make sure to plan ahead for smooth transitions. While movers are handling your items, you can focus on setting up your services. For more tips on what to do during the moving process, check out our guide on what to do while movers are moving your stuff.

4. Subscription & Delivery Services

In today’s digital age, many people rely on subscription services, so you’ll want to make sure these continue without interruption:

• Subscription Boxes: Notify any subscription box companies (like beauty boxes, book clubs, meal kits) to ensure you don’t miss out on deliveries.
• Online Shopping Sites: Change your address on sites like Amazon, eBay, and other e-commerce platforms to avoid receiving packages at your old address.
• Food Delivery Apps: Don’t forget about food delivery services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Postmates—update your delivery address on all apps.

5. Work, School & Professional Groups

Ensure that all relevant professional and educational bodies have your updated information:

• Employers & HR Departments: Notify your current (and past) employers of your address change, so they can update your tax forms and benefits information.
• Schools: If you or your children are enrolled in school, ensure the records department knows your new address for report cards, newsletters, and other important communications.
• Professional Organizations: Whether you belong to trade unions, licensing boards, or other professional groups, be sure they have your updated contact information.

6. Health & Medical Providers

Updating your address with healthcare providers ensures you don’t miss vital appointments or prescriptions:

• Doctors, Dentists, Opticians: Notify your healthcare providers of your new address. This is also an opportunity to transfer medical records if you’re moving far away.
• Pharmacy: Update your address with your local pharmacy to avoid delays in prescription refills.
• Insurance Providers: Contact your health, life, and home insurance companies to ensure your policies are up to date and your premiums are sent to the correct address.

7. Friends, Family & Social Groups

Lastly, let the people who matter know where you’re headed:

• Family & Friends: Share your new address via mail or a group message so you don’t miss any personal invites or letters.
• Social Groups & Clubs: Whether you’re part of a local gym, country club, or other organizations, make sure they have your new contact details.

8. Optional Updates

Some less immediate changes may be necessary, but it’s always a good idea to ensure everything is updated:

• Magazine & Newspaper Subscriptions: Update your address to ensure you don’t miss out on your favorite publications.
• Membership Cards: From Costco to AAA, make sure your membership addresses are current to avoid disruptions in service.

How to Organize Your Change of Address Updates

To avoid overlooking any crucial updates, create a checklist and set a timeline. Start notifying the USPS and key financial institutions about 3–4 weeks before the move. Utility companies and service providers should be updated at least 2–3 weeks in advance to ensure smooth transitions. Don’t forget to leave your old address open for mail forwarding for up to a year.

Final Thoughts

Updating your address can seem overwhelming, but by following this change of address checklist, you can stay organized and ensure a seamless transition. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, this comprehensive checklist covers all the important organizations and individuals you need to notify. Keep track of your progress and check off each step as you go.

To stay on top of all your moving tasks, it’s essential to create a timeline and stay organized. If you’re wondering how much time it might take to settle into your new home, we’ve got you covered in our article on how long it takes to move into a house.

FAQs

1. How soon should I update my address before moving?

It’s recommended to start updating your address at least 3–4 weeks before your move. This allows enough time for mail forwarding and service transfers to be set up.

2. Do I need to notify the IRS of my address change?

Yes, you should notify the IRS using Form 8822. This ensures that any tax refunds, notices, or forms are sent to your new address.

3. Can I change my address online?

Yes, you can update your address online with many organizations, including the USPS, DMV, and banks. Be sure to visit each website for specific instructions.

4. Is there a fee for mail forwarding from USPS?

Yes, USPS charges a small fee for mail forwarding. However, this service is essential for ensuring you don’t miss important mail after your move.

5. Do I need to update my address with every subscription service?

It’s a good idea to update your address with any subscription services you use, including meal kits, streaming platforms, and magazines to avoid missing deliveries.