One of the most important tasks of moving is changing your address; forget this crucial step and you’ll spend the upcoming weeks dealing with missing or rejected mail that could wind up at your old address or even at the post office itself. So, what are the steps you need to take to change your address?
Keep reading and follow this simple address change checklist…
Confirm Your Address
Before starting, make certain you have the correct address for your new home. This step is especially important in newer subdivisions or when multiple instances of similar street names occur within a single city. Check the spelling, house number, and ZIP code with your realtor or landlord as well as the USPS.
Determine Your Moving Schedule
For most people, we recommend changing your address about two weeks before the big day. The USPS states that it sometimes takes as many as seven to 10 business days to process a change and forward your mail, especially if your move is not local. Make sure you list the correct effective date, so you continue to receive mail at the original location until you move.
Consider Holding Your Mail
If you’ll be in transition for a while, you may be able to have the USPS hold your mail until you’re established at your new address. Then, you can pick up your mail at the post office or have it delivered to your new address. Remember—expect a wait of around seven to 10 business days to receive your forwarded or held mail.
Change Your Address with USPS
When you’re ready, change your address using one of these two official methods:
- Visit the USPS official address change form and change your address online. You’ll need to pay a $1.05 fee by credit or debit card to prove your identity. Then, you’ll receive an email confirmation when you’re finished.
- Go to your local post office and fill out PS form 3575. Once it’s completed, simply drop it into the mail slot or give it to a postal worker. USPS will send a confirmation letter to your new address within five days
Update Your Address with Other Entities
Finally, USPS will only forward first-class mail to your new address for 12 months, and only 60 days for magazines and other periodicals. Therefore, it’s essential you change your address with each entity, individually. Here’s a general list of who you should contact:
- Driver’s License Issuer
- State Motor Vehicle Agency
- IRS
- Voter Registration
- Social Security Office
- VA
- Banks
- Credit Card Issuer
- Mortgage Lender
- Water
- Electric & Gas
- Internet & Cable
- Cell Phone Provider
- Insurance Providers
How Do I Book an Appointment for Moving Help?
Now that you have your new address—and a plan to begin receiving your mail there—isn’t it time to book your move? You can schedule your appointment with Perrysburg Moving in any of these three simple ways:
- Fill out our online contact form
- Email us at PerrysburgMoving@gmail.com
- Call or text us at (419) 740-1005
Have a stress-free moving day and contact Perrysburg Moving today.