Informing The Post Office Of Your New Home

Moving to a new home can be an overwhelming process, with several tedious steps to ensure the safe and accurate delivery of your mail and packages. One of the most important tasks is updating your address with the post office. Previously, homeowners had to physically go to the post office to complete the Change of Address paperwork. Now, you can easily perform this task online at the USPS website for a minimal cost of $1.10. Here are the steps you need to take to update your address with the post office:

Online vs in-person: You can update your address online or in-person at the post office

Updating your address with the post office after buying a new home is a simple process that can be done online or in-person. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose the most suitable option for you:

Online Address Update:

• Visit the Official USPS Change of Address website, USPS.com/move.
• On the website, choose the option that best describes your move type: "Individual," "Family" (same last name), or "Business."
• Complete the form by entering your contact information, previous address, and new address.
• Verify your identity by opting to receive a verification code or link on your mobile phone.
• Pay the $1.10 identity verification fee. Ensure that the billing address on your credit card matches either your old or new address.
• Upon successful verification, USPS will send a confirmation code to your email. You can use this code to modify or cancel your request.
• You will receive a Move Validation letter at your old address and a Customer Notification Letter at your new address about five business days before the change takes effect.

In-Person Address Update:

• Visit your local post office with acceptable photo identification and any other required documents.
• Request a free Mover's Guide packet from the post office staff.
• Fill out the PS Form 3575 found inside the packet and submit it to the retail associate, who will verify your identity and process your change of address request.

Factors to Consider:

When deciding between updating your address online or in-person, consider the following:

• You must update your address in person if you are moving outside the United States, submitting a request for someone else, or unable to verify your identity online.
• The online process offers the convenience of completing the form from home and receiving confirmation via email.
• The in-person process may be preferred if you have specific questions or concerns that can be addressed by speaking directly with a post office representative.

Both options are straightforward and ensure that your mail is properly rerouted to your new address. Choose the one that best suits your circumstances and preferences.

Online process: Visit the official USPS website, enter contact info, previous and new address, and pay a fee

If you've bought a new home, you can update your address with the USPS online. Start by going to the official USPS website and looking for the "Who is moving?" section. Here, you'll find the Change of Address form.

On the form, you'll need to enter your contact information, including your name, phone number, and email address. You'll also need to provide your previous address and your new address. If you're moving with family members who share the same last name, you can include them on the form.

After entering your information, you'll need to verify your identity. You can opt to receive a verification code or link on your mobile phone. There is a $1.10 identity verification fee, and the billing address on your credit card must match either your old or new address.

Once your identity is verified, USPS will send you a confirmation code via email. You'll also receive a Move Validation letter to your old address and a Customer Notification Letter to your new address about five business days before your change of address start date.

Keep in mind that it's best to allow up to two weeks for the change of address process to be completed. Your mail will be forwarded to your new address as it comes, piece by piece.

In-person process: Visit the post office, ask for the Mover's Guide packet, fill out the form, and provide photo ID

If you're updating your address in person at the post office, the process is straightforward. Here's a detailed guide to help you through it:

In-person Process:

• Visit the post office: Go to your local post office with a valid form of photo identification. Ensure that your identification is issued by the government and has your name and a clear photo. Accepted forms of ID include a state-issued driver's license, a U.S. certificate of citizenship, or a U.S. Armed Forces card.
• Ask for the Movers Guide packet: Inform a staff member that you're moving and would like to update your address. Request the Movers Guide packet, which contains the necessary form for updating your address.
• Fill out the form: The Movers Guide packet will contain a PS Form 3575. Carefully fill out this form with your old and new addresses, as well as your contact information.
• Provide photo ID: Along with the completed form, show your photo ID to the retail associate. They will verify your identity and process your change of address request.

It's important to note that the in-person process is required if you're moving outside the United States, submitting a change of address for someone else, or unable to verify your identity online.

Additionally, if you're setting up mail delivery for new construction, you'll need to provide additional documentation, such as your land deed and title, to prove that your location is valid. The Postmaster will review these documents and provide you with the necessary paperwork to fill out.

Timing: Update your address at least three days before moving

Timing is crucial when it comes to updating your address with the post office. It's recommended to initiate the process at least three days before you move to ensure a seamless transition for your mail delivery. Here are some detailed steps and considerations to help you navigate the process effectively:

Step 1: Determine Your New Mailing Address

Before updating your address, it's essential to confirm your exact new mailing address. This is particularly important if you're moving into a new housing development or an area with unique addressing conventions. Contact your realtor or refer to your property documents to verify the precise address, as it will be validated by the United States Postal Service (USPS).

Step 2: Choose Your Update Method

You have two main options for updating your address: online or in person at your local post office. The online method is often more convenient and can be done through the official USPS website for a minimal fee. This fee is for identity verification, and you'll need a billing address on your credit card that matches either your old or new address.

If you prefer to update your address in person, visit your local post office and ask for the Mover's Guide packet. Fill out the PS Form 3575 found inside the packet and provide it to a retail associate, along with your photo ID, for processing.

Step 3: Understand the Forwarding Process

When you update your address, USPS will forward your mail to your new location. First-Class mail, periodicals, Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage items are typically forwarded for free. However, Media Mail items will incur shipping charges from your local post office location to your new address. It's important to note that USPS Marketing Mail is not forwarded.

The forwarding process can take up to two weeks, and your mail will be rerouted to your new address piece by piece. Therefore, it's advisable to update your address at least three days before moving to minimize any gaps in mail delivery.

Step 4: Update Other Services and Organizations

Remember, updating your address with the post office only changes your mailing address with them. You will need to separately notify other government agencies, such as those related to your driver's license, benefits, and voter registration. Additionally, inform companies like banks, insurance providers, and online stores of your new address. This step is crucial to ensure that all your important mail and services are correctly redirected to your new home.

Step 5: Handle Mailbox Keys

If you have a community mailbox or PO Box owned by USPS, you must surrender your keys to your local post office before your move. They will re-key the box for any new tenants. If your mailbox is privately owned, relinquish both your mailbox and house keys to the appropriate party. Consult your landlord or leasing company about their specific requirements.

In summary, updating your address with the post office at least three days before moving ensures that your mail forwarding process begins promptly. This proactive approach helps you stay on top of your mail delivery and reduces the chances of missing important correspondence during the transition to your new home.

Other services: Remember to update your address with other government services and companies

Once you've updated your address with the post office, there are several other government services and companies that you should notify of your new address. Here are some detailed steps to help you with this process:

Government Services:

• Driver's License and Vehicle Registration: Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to update your driver's license and vehicle registration address. Bring the necessary documents, such as your old driver's license, new proof of address, and vehicle registration papers.
• Voter Registration: Contact your local election office or secretary of state's office to update your voter registration records. You may be able to do this online, by mail, or in person.
• Benefits: If you receive any government benefits, such as Social Security or Medicare, notify the relevant agencies of your new address. You can usually do this online or by contacting their customer service.
• Passport: Update your address on your passport by completing a passport correction or update form. You may need to submit this form by mail or in person, depending on your country's requirements.

Companies and Subscriptions:

• Banks and Financial Institutions: Inform your bank and any other financial institutions, such as investment firms or credit unions, of your new address. You can typically do this by visiting a branch in person or updating your information through online banking.
• Insurance: Update your address with your insurance providers, including health, home, auto, and life insurance. Contact each company directly, as the process may vary.
• Online Stores and Subscriptions: Change your address for any online stores or subscription services, such as Amazon, Netflix, or magazine subscriptions. Log in to your account and update your information in the settings or profile section.
• Credit Card Companies: Notify your credit card companies of your new address to ensure that your billing statements are sent to the correct location. You can usually do this online or by contacting customer service.
• Service Providers: Update your address with any service providers, such as internet, phone, cable, and utility companies. Contact each provider directly to inform them of your new address and update your billing information.
• Medical Billing Companies: If you receive medical bills or statements, update your address with the relevant healthcare providers and billing departments.

It's important to update your address with these organizations promptly to ensure that you continue to receive important correspondence and maintain your access to services.

Frequently asked questions