So you’ve signed the lease, packed your things, and scheduled the movers (and if you haven’t – contact FlatRate today!) but there’s one major thing you might be forgetting – updating your address. From the post office to the DMV, there is a seemingly endless list of people and places that need directions to your new digs. So to help, we’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist of all the places you need to update your address before, during, and after your move.
The Post Office
Make sure you don’t miss any mail by setting up a forwarding address with the post office. USPS recommends doing this up to two weeks in advance as it can take time to process your request.
You can update your address in person at your local post office by filling out PS Form 3575 or online using the Official USPS Change of Address® website. Note: if filing online you will have to pay a $1.05 identity verification fee. Bonus, to help you settle in, USPS will even give you coupons for stores like Wayfair and Amazon!
The Bank
A new home means a new billing address so make sure you update it with your bank and/or credit card providers beforehand (you don’t want any missed bills!)
Insurance Companies
Home, car, dental, life, and health insurance companies are all going to need your new address in order to ensure you maintain consistent coverage before, during, and after your move. Make sure to update all policies directly with each company as soon as possible.
If you’re moving to a new state, be sure to check that your current insurance policies (especially car insurance) meet the state’s minimum requirements for coverage.
Utilities
Make sure to notify your internet, gas, phone, and electric companies when you intend to transfer or terminate service. This will help you avoid getting hit with extra bills and ensure you’ve hooked up ASAP when you move in.
Pets
If you have pets, make sure to update all registrations, chips, and the vet before you move. You might want to get a copy of your pet’s vaccination and/or medical records in case your new landlord, vet, etc. need them.
The Department of Motor Vehicles
Along with your insurance provider, your local DMV (or RMV, depending on the state) is also going to need your new address. Some states require that you update your license and vehicle registration within 48 hours of a move, so be sure to notify the DMV as soon as possible to avoid trouble (including fines!) later on.
If you’re moving out of state, it’s very possible you may need a new license altogether. Contact the local DMV for more information on what documentation you will need to bring with you but be prepared to be able to provide:
- Proof of in-state residency (a lease, utility bill, pay stub, etc.)
- A valid license (with your previous address)
- Your social security number
- Other acceptable forms of identification
Depending on the state, you may also be required to pass a written, vision, or even a road test before receiving your updated license so make sure to check local laws beforehand.
Voter Registration
Whether moving to a new state or a new town, you’re going to need to update your voter registration if you want to participate in the next election. While laws across the country vary, vote.org has a great tool to help you register to vote online and quickly find voter registration laws and deadlines in your state.
The IRS
While we all wish the IRS couldn’t find us, unfortunately, they’re going to need to. Thankfully, the Internal Revenue Service makes changing your address relatively easy. Simply fill out Form 8822 and send it along to the Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service for the state you’re moving from using the addresses listed on page 2.
You’re also going to want to notify the state tax agency of any change in your address as well. For more information, see your state’s government website.
The Social Security Administration
If you receive Social Security benefits, make sure you notify the SSA of your new address. You can update your information online, at your local Social Security office, or by telephone at 1-800-772-1213.
Healthcare Providers
You’re also going to want to update your address directly with your healthcare providers. If you’re moving far away or out of state– you’re going to need to find a new doctor. Most offices will be able to assist you with transferring your chart to your new provider and if you aren’t sure where to go next, they may even be able to provide you with recommendations.
Additionally, if you have any prescription medications, you may also want to update your address with the local pharmacy and/or have your prescriptions transferred elsewhere.
Subscriptions
Auto-deliveries, newspapers, and streaming services all need to have your new address to ensure you’re getting what you pay for. Make sure you update these before they renew to avoid headaches in the future.
Bonus: Change of Address Services
While all this may seem overwhelming (especially on top of the move itself!), there are online services that will help you change your address everywhere at the click of a button. Just be careful of scams and never give any details that could be used to compromise your identity or bank details (update that on your own).
Zillow (1StopMove) and iammoving.com are two websites that will do most of the heavy lifting for free. Just make sure to keep track of what they are and aren’t updating (just in case!).