Filing one form with the post office is the easy part. The harder part is remembering every bank, agency, subscription, and service that still has your old address on file, because USPS mail forwarding is temporary and eventually stops. This checklist covers the USPS step first, then walks through everyone else you need to notify so nothing important slips through the cracks.
Work through it in order, and check items off as you go.
Step 1: File your change of address with USPS
USPS forwards your mail to your new home so you do not miss anything while you update everyone individually. You have two ways to file:
- Online at USPS.com/move (the official page is moversguide.usps.com). This takes about 10 minutes and charges a small $1.25 identity verification fee to a credit or debit card, used to confirm you are who you say you are. Do not pay more. Third-party scam sites often appear in search results and charge $40 or more for the same service.
- In person at any Post Office, free of charge. Bring a valid photo ID and fill out PS Form 3575.
A few things to know:
- Submit your request about two weeks before your move so forwarding starts on time. You can schedule the start date up to three months in advance.
- Forwarding usually begins within 7 to 10 business days of your chosen start date.
- First-class mail is forwarded for 12 months. Periodicals and magazines are forwarded for only about 60 days.
- Choose individual to forward just your mail, or family to forward everyone in the household with the same last name.
- Sign up for Informed Delivery (free) to get daily email previews of incoming mail, which is handy while you are between addresses.
Forwarding buys you time, but it is not a permanent fix. Use the rest of this checklist to update your real address everywhere before forwarding runs out.
Step 2: Update government and official records
These keep you compliant and make sure benefits, refunds, and official notices reach you:
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration at your state DMV. Many states require this within a set window after you move, so check your state’s deadline.
- Voter registration for your new address.
- IRS (file Form 8822 or update your address when you file taxes).
- Social Security Administration, if you receive benefits.
- Any state or federal benefit programs you participate in.
- Passport, if a renewal or update is due (the address itself is not printed, but keep records current).
Step 3: Update financial accounts
Old addresses on financial accounts can mean missed statements, declined cards, and fraud risk:
- Banks and credit unions
- Credit card companies
- Loan and mortgage servicers
- Investment, retirement, and brokerage accounts
- Insurance policies (auto, home or renters, health, life)
- PayPal and other payment apps
Step 4: Update employment and education
- Your employer (HR and payroll, so your W-2 and pay records are correct)
- Schools, colleges, or student loan servicers
- Professional licensing boards, if you hold a license
Step 5: Update home services and utilities
Set up service at your new home and close or transfer it at the old one:
- Electricity, gas, water, and trash
- Internet and cable
- Phone provider
- Home security or monitoring
Step 6: Update subscriptions and memberships
These are the ones most people forget until a package goes to the wrong house:
- Online retailers and shopping accounts (Amazon and others)
- Streaming and delivery services
- Magazine and box subscriptions
- Gym and club memberships
- Loyalty and rewards programs
- Pharmacy and prescription delivery
Step 7: Update healthcare and personal contacts
- Doctors, dentists, and specialists
- Pharmacy
- Veterinarian, if you have pets
- Friends and family
Change of address timeline at a glance
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks before move | File USPS change of address |
| 2 weeks before move | Schedule utility transfers and new service |
| Moving week | Update banks, cards, and insurance |
| Within state deadline | Update driver’s license and registration |
| First month after move | Work through subscriptions and memberships |
| Before forwarding ends | Confirm every account shows the new address |
This checklist pairs with the broader moving checklist, and if you are setting up a new place, the new home moving checklist covers what to do once you arrive. Moving across state lines adds a few extra steps, all in the moving out of state checklist.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to change your address with USPS? Online it is a $1.25 identity verification fee. In person at a Post Office it is free. Avoid third-party sites that charge $40 or more.
How long does USPS forward your mail? First-class mail is forwarded for 12 months. Periodicals and magazines are forwarded for about 60 days. After that, unforwarded mail goes back to the sender.
When should I file my change of address? About two weeks before your move so forwarding starts on time. You can set a future start date up to three months ahead.
Does changing my address with USPS update it everywhere? No. USPS only forwards mail. You still have to update each bank, agency, and service individually, which is what this checklist is for.
The bottom line
File with USPS first to forward your mail, then treat forwarding as a countdown: work through government, financial, work, utility, subscription, and personal accounts before it expires. Keep this checklist handy and tick each item off, and you will not be chasing lost mail months after the move.
For the full move from start to finish, see our complete guide to moving.
This article is for general informational purposes only. USPS fees and procedures can change. Confirm current details at USPS.com, and check your state’s specific deadlines for updating your license and registration.
