Change of Address Checklist: Who to Notify When You Move

Have you recently had or are you expecting a change of address? If so, there are many people and organizations you'll have to notify about your change of address, including the post office, bank, family and friends, magazine subscriptions, and more. While this may seem like a daunting task, it is relatively easy to do with a little bit of planning. Let's dive into everything you need to know when preparing to change your address.

How Soon Should I Change My Address Before Moving?

Amidst all the stressful elements that come with moving, the first thing that most people are wondering about when preparing for a change of address is how soon they have to change their address? The answer is that you should change your address as quickly as possible. This way, important mail will not get lost in the transition, and you can avoid any late fees or penalties that may be associated with changing your address too late.

The next thing you have to know is all the different locations and places that you will need to contact to change your address.

This change of address checklist will help you figure out who to notify when you need to change your address:

The Post Office

The post office is the first place you will want to start when dealing with a change of address! The post office will be able to change your address and have your mail forwarded to your new home. You have to fill out a change of address form, which you can do online, and pay the $1.10 fee (as of 2022). Be sure to do this at least two weeks before your move to avoid missing important mail!

Your Employer

The second place you must notice when you change address is with your employer. You want to ensure that your employer updates payroll so that any payments or physical checks are routed to the right place. If you have benefits like health insurance or dental coverage, there may be forms to update.

Another reason you want to contact your employer about your change of address is so they can update your contact information in their records. This may be important if an emergency arises or for tax purposes.

Banks And Financial Institutions

If you have any outstanding loans or lines of credit, notify the lender as soon as possible about your change of address. This is important because lenders use your mailing address to send important information like account statements, tax documents, and annual percentage rate (APR) changes. Notifying your lender early gives them plenty of time to update their records so that nothing gets lost in the shuffle during your move.

You'll also want to change your address for any credit cards. Many credit card companies allow you to change your address online, but some may require that you call customer service.

Your Insurance Providers

Contact your insurance providers—health, life, auto, homeowners/renters—to change your address on file. This is important so that any correspondence about policy changes or payments gets routed to your new address. You may also need to update your policy if you're moving to a new state with different insurance requirements.

Another critical reason why you need to make sure to contact your insurance provider is in the case of an emergency. For example, if you have to claim on your homeowners or renters insurance, and the insurer has your old address on file, it could delay getting coverage.

The DMV

If you're moving out of state, you may need to get a new driver's license and register your car in the new state. Even if you're staying within state lines, you still need to notify the DMV of your change of address so that they can update their records. The process for updating your information will vary from state to state, so it's essential to research the specific requirements for your new location.

If you were to get pulled over and your insurance does not match your driver's license, you may be subject to additional fines depending on where you live. The DMV also uses your mailing address to send important documents like registration renewals, so their records must be up-to-date.

The Utility Companies

The utility companies that service your old home need to know when to terminate service, and the utility companies at your new home need to know when to start service. This includes everything from water and electricity to trash pick-up and internet service.

You should also notify your cable company and any other regular monthly services you have of your change of address so you can continue receiving these services without interruption. Many companies will allow you to update your information online, but some may require that you call customer service.

Your Friends And Family

Remember to include your friends and family on your contact list if you change your address! They can send you snail mail and cards for your birthday and holidays. If there is an emergency or you need to be reached, your family and friends will know how to get ahold of you. We've got free moving announcement templates to help make this step easier!

Your Gym, Clubs, And Other Memberships

When you change your address, you want to make sure you change the address on your gym membership or any other memberships you have. This way, if there is ever an issue with your account, the company will be able to reach you. Additionally, many companies use your mailing address to send important information like account statements and changes to terms and conditions.

Health Care Professionals

Healthcare professionals include your doctor, dentist, orthodontist, and other medical professionals you see regularly. These people need your updated address so they can send you important information like test results, referrals, and bills. The best way to change your address with healthcare professionals is to call their offices and speak to someone in customer service.

Government Agencies

In addition to the DMV, postal service, and other mentioned government services, here are some other agencies you will need to notify of your change of address:

• Medicare/Medicaid card
• Vehicle registration
• Voter registration
• IRS
• Pension plan
• Social security

Online Shopping Sites

Before you make your next online purchase, change your address on any shopping sites you use. This includes Amazon, eBay, and other retailers. Otherwise, your purchase will be sent to your old address, and you will have to go through the hassle of changing it.

Food Delivery Services

When you are about to order your next lazy day food delivery, you will want to change the address on file. Otherwise, you may have to trek out to pick up your food, or it may even get delivered to your old home.

Ensure A Stress-Free Move

While it may seem like a lot of work to change your address with all these places, taking the time to do it properly will save you headaches down the road. By following this change of address checklist, you can ensure that all your important mail will get to your new home. In addition, check out our comprehensive moving checklist to help you avoid stress during your big move.

If you are looking for assistance during your next move, reach out to MovingLabor.com today! We can guide you on your moving journey and do all the heavy lifting so you don't have to.