Change Address when Moving

There are 2 different ways to change your address when you are moving to a new location. You can change your address online for a fee or visit your local post office for free. When you need to know how to change address when moving, whether it's temporary or permanent, follow these simple steps to alert the post office.

Steps

Change Your Address at the Post Office

  1. Visit your local post office, and pick up a change of address form. These are normally on display at your post office, but you may need to ask for one from the postmaster.
  2. Fill out the form completely with your name, old address, new address, whether you are moving permanently or temporarily, the date of your move, and any other names you go by. You can also select whether or not you'd like to receive your catalog or magazine subscriptions at your new address.
  3. Hand the postmaster your completed form, or put it in your mailbox to start having your mail sent to your new address. If you selected that your move was temporary, the post office will only forward your mail for up to 6 months. You will need to submit another change of address if you want your mail forwarded for more than 6 months.

Change Your Address Online

  1. Visit the post office's website, and select the link for "Change of Address." You may see an advertisement at the bottom of the page stating that if you are moving, you can change your address online. It will cost you $1 to change your address online.
  2. Read the terms of service, and agree to them by clicking on "Continue."
  3. Select whether your move is permanent or temporary, and enter in the date of your move. Then select "Continue" again.
  4. Select which type of move it is. Your options include whether it is for an individual, an entire family, or for a business. Select "Continue."
  5. Enter in your name, old address, new address, and your email address 2 times for confirmation. Select "continue."
  6. Verify your identity by providing the necessary information. This might be your date of birth, social security number, phone number, or other pertinent information. You will also need to enter in your method of payment to change your address. After you click submit, you will be charged $1 to your credit card.
  7. Select from special offers that are available in your new home's area, if desired. This might include discounts on cable, groceries, and even magazine subscriptions. Click "Continue."
  8. Confirm your change of address. You will be taken to a new page that offers you information about moving including utilities, cable TV, phone service, and much more.

Tips

  • Don't forget to change your address with your creditors. You will need to call and change your address with all of your creditors so that your current address is updated on your bills. This is an important step because your creditors need to know your new address for billing and credit reporting purposes. Some creditors you might alert, include your bank or financial institution, credit card providers, and cell phone company.

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