Changing Address and Documents

Who to Notify: Your Change of Address Checklist

Systematically update your address with the following entities, ideally within the first few weeks after your move:

• U.S. Postal Service (USPS):
  • This is the most important step to ensure mail forwarding from your old address to your new one (usually for up to 12 months for first-class mail).
  • You can change your address online at the official USPS Change of Address website (requires a small fee, typically around $1.10, for identity verification via credit/debit card) or in person at any Post Office by filling out Form 3575.
  • Submit the change request about 1-2 weeks before your move date if possible, but do it as soon as possible after moving.
• Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV / MVC):
  • Crucial and Time-Sensitive! Update your driver's license/state ID card with your new address within the state's required timeframe (often 30-60 days). See Getting Driver's License guide.
  • Update your vehicle registration and title. See Registering Vehicle guide.
• Government Agencies:
  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Notify the IRS of your address change to ensure you receive tax refunds or correspondence. You can do this by filing Form 8822, Change of Address, by writing a letter, or often simply by using your new address when you file your next tax return.
  • Social Security Administration (SSA): If you receive Social Security or Medicare benefits, update your address online via your My Social Security account, by phone, or by visiting a local SSA office.
  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): If you have pending immigration applications or are a non-citizen required to report address changes (most non-citizens must report within 10 days of moving), file Form AR-11, Alien's Change of Address Card, online or by mail. This is separate from the USPS change of address.
  • State Tax Authority: Notify the tax agency in both your old state and your new state.
  • Voter Registration: Update your voter registration in your new state/county (see Voter Registration guide). You may also want to optionally notify your previous county election office to be removed from their rolls.
• Financial Institutions:
  • Banks and Credit Unions (checking, savings accounts).
  • Credit Card Companies.
  • Loan Providers (mortgage, auto loan, student loan, personal loan).
  • Investment Brokers / Retirement Account Administrators (401k, IRA).
• Employer / Income Sources:
  • Your current employer (or previous employer if expecting final paychecks or tax forms like W-2).
  • Any sources of pension or retirement income.
• Insurance Providers:
  • Auto Insurance (required BEFORE registering your car in the new state).
  • Homeowner's or Renter's Insurance.
  • Health Insurance Provider.
  • Life Insurance Provider.
• Subscriptions & Services:
  • Magazines and Newspapers.
  • Streaming Services (check for location-based content).
  • Online Shopping Accounts (Amazon, etc. - update default shipping address).
  • Meal Kit or Other Delivery Services.
  • Loyalty Programs / Frequent Flyer Accounts.
  • Professional Licenses / Associations.
  • Gym Memberships (cancel or transfer).
• Personal Contacts:
  • Family and Friends.
  • Doctors, Dentists, Veterinarians (request record transfer too).