Change Address Checklist: Who to Notify When Moving
If you need to change address when moving, a checklist can ensure that some of the more common aspects that could go wrong with a move do not. One of the most important things to do when moving is to update your address with all of your contacts and service providers. This will ensure that your mail, packages, and other important communications continue to reach you at your new address. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a comprehensive change of address checklist that will help you stay organized and on top of everything during your move.
Notify the post office:
Notifying the post office of your change address when moving is one of the first steps you should take when moving. This will ensure that your mail and packages will be forwarded to your new address, so you don’t miss out on any important communications.
To notify the post office of your new address, you can visit your local post office and fill out a change of address form. This form can be completed in person or online. When you submit this form, the post office will update their records with your new address and start forwarding your mail to your new address.
Alternatively, you can also update your address through the United States Postal Service website. By visiting the USPS website, you can fill out an online change of address form. This form will require you to provide your name, old address, new address, and other personal information. You will also be required to pay a small fee for this service. Once the form is submitted, the post office will update its records and start forwarding your mail to your new address.
It’s important to note that the post office will forward your mail to your new address for a specified period of time, usually for one year. This means that any mail sent to your old address during this period will be forwarded to your new address. This will give you enough time to update your address with your contacts and service providers.
Also, it’s important to note that forwarding your mail will not change your address for other government agencies or financial institutions, so it’s important to inform them separately as well.
It’s best to notify the post office of your new address at least two weeks before your move to ensure that the forwarding process starts on time and you receive your mail promptly.
Notify the DMV:
Updating your address with the DMV will ensure that your driver’s license and vehicle registration are up-to-date with your new address. This is important for legal reasons, as it will prevent any issues or fines related to having incorrect address information on your driver’s license or vehicle registration. Additionally, it will also make things easier when you need to renew your license or registration in the future. This can be done by visiting your local DMV office in person or by updating your information online.
Change your address with the IRS:
Changing your address with the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) is another step in the process of moving. This will ensure that your tax documents and other important mail from the IRS are forwarded to your new address, and that your address is up-to-date for tax purposes.
There are a few ways you can change your address with the IRS. You can do this by filing Form 8822, which is the official change of address form for tax purposes. This form can be completed and mailed to the IRS, or you can file it electronically through the e-file system.
Another way to change your address with the IRS is to do it via the phone. You can call the IRS toll-free number 1-800-829-1040 and follow the automated prompts. They will ask you to provide information like your social security number, old address, and new address, but it’s best to have a copy of Form 8822 to be sure that all the information is correct.
It’s important to note that changing your address with the IRS will not change your address for state taxes, so you may need to also notify your state tax agency of your new address. Also, by updating your address with the IRS you will also ensure that your refund and stimulus check will be sent to the correct address and you will be informed of any important deadlines or notices from the IRS regarding your taxes or tax-related issues.
Banks and other financial institutions:
When you notify your bank and other financial institutions of your new address, they will update their records with your new address and start sending your account statements, credit card bills, and other important mail to your new address. It’s important to also notify any other financial institutions you have accounts with, such as investment firms, credit card companies, and loan providers, as well.
By updating your address with these institutions, you’ll be able to keep track of your financial accounts and monitor any suspicious activity. You will also be informed of any new account offers, promos, and even fraud attempts, this is why it’s important to make a list of all your financial institutions and update them one by one.
You can notify your bank and other financial institutions of your new address in a few ways. Options include online via the institution’s website, by mail, or by phone. Some banks and financial institutions might also have a mobile app where you can update your address. Many banks or financial institutions also have a form you can fill out and submit in person. It’s a good idea to check with your bank or financial institution to see what method is available for updating your address.
Update your address with your employer:
Updating your address with your employer will not only ensure that your paychecks and other important documents continue to reach you at your new address, but it will also ensure that your employer has your correct contact information in case of an emergency or other important matter.
When you update your address with your employer, they will update their records with your new address and start sending your paychecks and other important documents to your new address. Additionally, it will help your employer to reach you promptly with important information or in case of an emergency.
You can update your address with your employer in a few ways, depending on the company’s process or policies. You can do it via email, phone, or in person, and some companies might have a specific form or process that needs to be followed. Ask your human resources representative or payroll department for guidance on the process of updating your address. It’s important to also update your address with your benefits provider if your benefits are tied to your employment or if you are enrolled in any employee benefit programs.
It’s also a good idea to inform your supervisor or manager of your move in case it affects your work schedule or responsibilities.
Also, it’s important to update your address with your employer as soon as possible to avoid any issues with receiving your paycheck or important documents. The best time to update your address with your employer is at least two weeks before your move to ensure that your employer has enough time to update their records.
Notify your insurance providers:
Notifying your insurance providers of your change address when moving will ensure that your insurance policy and other important communications from your insurance providers continue to reach you at your new address.
When you notify your insurance providers of your new address, they will update their records with your new address and start sending your policy documents, bills, and other important mail to your new address. This will ensure that your coverage is not interrupted, and your payments are received on time. Additionally, it’s also important to ensure that your insurance policy covers your belongings during the move as well, especially if you’re hiring professional movers or moving your belongings by yourself.
You can notify your insurance providers of your new address in a few ways, such as via email, phone, or mail. Some insurance providers also offer online portals where you can update your address and policy information. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to see what method is available for updating your address.
It’s important to notify your insurance providers at least two weeks before your move to ensure that your policy is updated in a timely manner and there’s no interruption in your coverage.
Also, if you’re moving to a new state or location, you’ll want to verify your coverage and update any necessary information with your insurance providers, as coverage can vary depending on the location, this can be important when you’re planning to change your car insurance, home insurance or health insurance for example.
Update any subscription services, such as magazines or streaming platforms:
Updating your address with any subscription services, such as magazines or streaming platforms will ensure that your subscription is delivered to your new address and that your account information is up-to-date.
When you update your address with a subscription service, they will update their records with your new address and start sending your subscription to your new address. This ensures that you will receive your magazines, newspapers, or other print subscriptions in a timely manner.
The process of updating your address with a subscription service can vary depending on the company, but it is generally done online or over the phone. Most subscription services will have a website or customer service number where you can log in to your account, and update your address information and contact information.
For streaming platforms, like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, it is also important to update your address in your account settings. This will ensure that any content or features that are specific to your location will be correctly displayed.
It’s important to note that it’s best to update your address with your subscription services at least two weeks before your move, to ensure that your subscriptions are delivered to your new address in a timely manner. This also avoids a gap of missing issues or episodes of your subscribed magazines, newspapers, or shows.
Friends and family:
When you notify your contacts and friends/family of your new address, you can share your new contact information, including your new address, phone number, and email address. This will ensure that your contacts have your correct information and can continue to stay in touch.
You can notify your contacts and friends/family of your new address by sending out a mass email, text message, or using social media. It’s also a good idea to include your new address in your email signature or on your social media profiles so that anyone who has your contact information can easily access it. You can also create a mailing list of your important contacts and send them a physical mail or card with your new address.
It’s important to note that it’s best to notify your contacts and friends/family of your new address at least two weeks before your move, to ensure that they have your new information in a timely manner. This will also help you to plan any moving-away party or any kind of farewell activities.
Additionally, don’t forget to also notify your medical providers, such as doctors, dentists, and others, of your new address so they can update their records and continue to provide you with the best possible care.
Delivery and package services (such as Amazon or UPS):
When you update your address with a delivery and package service, they will update their records with your new address and start sending your packages and deliveries to your new address. This ensures that you will receive your packages, groceries, and other online orders in a timely manner.
The process of updating your address with a delivery and package service can vary depending on the company, but it is generally done online or through a mobile app. Most delivery and package services will have a website or mobile app where you can log in to your account, update your address information and contact information. Some services also allow you to schedule delivery dates or choose pickup locations for certain orders, so it’s a good idea to check for these options before your move.
It’s important to note that it’s best to update your address with your delivery and package services at least two weeks before your move, to ensure that your packages and deliveries are sent to your new address in a timely manner. This will also help you to keep track of your deliveries and avoid any issues or delays.
Also, it’s a good idea to keep track of any regular deliveries or subscriptions you have, like groceries, medications or other regularly delivered items and update them one by one, this way you can ensure that you’ll have your regular items and avoid any disruptions in your routine.
Your children’s schools:
When you notify the new school of your child’s new address, they will update their records with your new address and will register your child with their school. This will allow your child to attend the new school and continue their education without interruption.
You’ll need to provide them with your child’s previous school records, birth certificate, proof of residence, and any other required documents.
You can notify the new school of your child’s new address in a few ways, such as by phone, email, or mail. Some schools also have an online registration process that you can use to update your address and submit required documents. It’s best to check with the school to see what method is available for updating your child’s address and what documents are required.
It’s important to note that it’s best to notify the new school of your child’s new address at least 4 weeks before your move, to ensure that your child can start the new school as soon as possible and that the school has enough time to process your child’s registration.
Utility providers:
Notifying your utility providers of your change address when moving is a key step on your change of address checklist when moving. This will ensure that your utility services, such as electricity, gas, water, and internet, are disconnected or transferred to your new address on the day of your move, so you won’t miss any important services.
When you notify your utility providers of your move date and new address, they will update their records with your new address and disconnect or transfer your services to your new address on the date specified. This means that your services will be active in your new home on the day of your move and you will not miss any important services.
Making arrangements to have your utilities turned off or transferred to your new address is an important step on your change of address checklist when moving. This will ensure that your utility services, such as electricity, gas, water, and internet, are disconnected or transferred to your new address on the day of your move, so you don’t miss out on any important services.
To have your utilities turned off or transferred to your new address, you will need to contact your utility providers and inform them of your move date and new address. They will then schedule the disconnection or transfer of your services on the date you specify. It’s important to have a clear and specific move-out date to make sure the services are disconnected on time and avoid any extra charges.
You can contact your utility providers by phone, email or mail to schedule disconnections or transfers. Some utility providers also have an online portal where you can update your address and schedule disconnections or transfers. It’s best to check with your utility providers to see what method is available for scheduling disconnections or transfers.
It’s important to note that it’s best to notify your utility providers of your move date and new address at least two weeks before your move, to ensure that your services are disconnected or transferred on the day of your move, and that you’re able to have services connected on the day you move in. Also, you’ll need to check the terms and conditions of your current contracts and make sure to settle any outstanding balance or charges. Some utility providers may also require a deposit or proof of residency at the new address before they transfer your services.
Pack and prepare your belongings for the move:
Packing and preparing your belongings for a move can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and organization, it can go smoothly. To start, you should make a list of the items you want to take with you to your new home and decide what you no longer need. This is a great opportunity to declutter and get rid of any items you no longer use or need. You can consider selling, donating, or recycling items you no longer need.
Next, you should gather all the necessary packing materials such as boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and any other items you might need to properly protect your belongings during the move. It is also important to label your boxes with their contents and the room it belongs to, this way it will be easy to unpack and place your items in the right room.
As you begin to pack, you should start with items that you use less frequently, such as holiday decorations, kitchen appliances, and other items that you can do without for a short period of time. As your move-out date approaches, you should begin to pack your everyday items such as clothes, bedding, and bathroom items.
It’s also a good idea to take pictures and make note of the condition of your furniture, appliances, and any other large items before you move. This can be useful if you need to file a claim for damages during the move, and you’ll have a record of their condition.
Finally, you should make sure that you have important documents and valuables, such as passports, jewelry, and legal papers, with you during the move, you might want to consider keeping them in a safety deposit box or with a trusted friend or family member, or use a fireproof safe, to ensure they stay safe during the move.
Make arrangements for movers or rent a moving truck:
Lastly, making arrangements for movers or renting a moving truck will ensure that your belongings are safely transported to your new home and that you have the proper equipment and resources to move your belongings.
If you decide to hire movers you should research different moving companies, get quotes, and compare prices, check customer reviews and make sure they are licensed and insured. You should also make sure that you understand the terms of the contract and any additional services they may provide such as packing, storage, and insurance.
It’s important to book your movers well in advance to ensure availability on your move-out date. If you decide to rent a moving truck to move, you should reserve the truck well in advance, check the truck’s condition before leaving, check fuel and mileage costs, and be sure to find out if there are any additional costs, such as insurance, tolls, and parking fees. Hiring a driver such as those at Moving Truck Driver can often make your move much easier on yourself and your family.
Regardless of whether you decide to hire movers or rent a moving truck, you should also make sure to properly prepare your belongings for the move, including packing, labeling, and protecting your belongings and making sure you have enough packing materials.
It’s important to note that you should take all the necessary precautions to avoid damages or injury and make sure that you have insurance coverage for your move, so you can be compensated if anything happens to your belongings during the move.
Change address when moving
When you change address when moving, it is essential to create a change of address checklist and follow it closely. This will ensure that all important steps are taken care of and nothing is overlooked. The checklist should include items such as updating your address with the post office, notifying financial institutions, insurance providers, and utility companies of your new address, as well as notifying friends and family of your new contact information. You should also make arrangements for movers or rent a moving truck if you are moving yourself, and pack and prepare your belongings for the move by decluttering, gathering necessary packing materials, labeling boxes, and making sure your valuables are protected. It’s important to do these things well in advance, at least 2-4 weeks prior, to avoid any delay or interruption in services and to have a smooth transition to your new home. When you change address when moving, a checklist can ensure that some of the more common aspects that could go wrong with a move do not. Good luck!
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For additional information, please read our next article entitled Tips for Packing for A Move.