At a Glance
With moving day fast approaching, your to-do list seems endless. Amidst hiring movers and packing boxes, don’t forget one crucial task: changing your address. While friends and family might be aware, numerous organizations and services also need to be notified to ensure a seamless transition to your new home.
Wondering who needs to know about your move and how to change your address efficiently? This comprehensive change of address checklist has got you covered.
Change of Address Checklist: Who to Notify
- Utility Companies
- Subscription Services
- Government Organizations
- Financial Institutions
- Insurance Companies
- Health Services
- Other Important Contacts
Utility Companies
Utility companies should be at the top of your list. If not informed in time, you risk paying for services at your old place and lacking essentials at your new home. Notify these companies:
- Gas
- Electricity
- Water
- Garbage
- Sewage
- Internet and Cable
- Phone (Landline)
- Home Security Service
- Solar Energy Company
Tip: Compare utility rates for your new home to find the best deals!
Subscription Services
Don’t let your favorite subscriptions get lost in the move. Update your address for:
- Amazon Prime
- Streaming Services
- Subscription Boxes
- Gym Memberships
- Local Memberships
- Retail Websites
- Magazines and Catalogs
Government Organizations
The easiest way to ensure mail delivery to your new address is by completing an online change of address form with USPS or visiting your local post office. Your mail will be forwarded for up to a year, although some subscriptions only for three months. Beware of fraudulent third-party sites that charge more than the $1.10 USPS fee.
Also, notify these agencies:
- DMV
- IRS
- Social Security Administration
- Veteran Affairs (if applicable)
- Voter Registration
- Other Government Benefits (Retirement, Disability, Medicare, etc.)
Financial Institutions
Ensure all your financial documents and bills reach your new address. Inform:
- Bank and Credit Union
- Loan Companies
- Credit Card Companies
- Retail Credit Accounts
- Financial Advisors or Accountants
Insurance Companies
Filling out a USPS change of address form helps your insurance mail arrive at your new home for 12 months. Still, contact these institutions directly to update their records:
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Car Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance
Health Services
Keep your health providers in the loop to avoid missing bills or appointment reminders. Notify:
- Doctor
- Dentist
- Veterinarian (if applicable)
- Pediatrician
Other Important Contacts
Lastly, inform these key contacts about your move:
- Current Employer
- Future Employer (if applicable)
- Business Associates
- Close Friends and Family
- Neighbors (Old and New)
- Map Apps (Google Maps, Apple Maps)
- Smart Home Apps (TV, Thermostat, Doorbell, etc.)
The Takeaway
From utility providers to your best friend in NYC, numerous parties need to know about your move. This checklist ensures all your mail, packages, important documents, and friends find their way to your new home without any hiccups.
Want More Tips on Changing Your Address?
Check out the Move.org Guide on How to Change Your Address and Forward Your Mail.
FAQ
Who should you not forget when you change your address? Inform everyone on this checklist, including your credit card company, financial institutions, insurance companies, subscription services, utility providers, health insurance company, and USPS. Remember, even with USPS mail forwarding, you need to notify each party directly to update their records.
How do I update my address on everything? Update your address online or in person at your local post office. Provide your current and new address, and specify if the move is permanent or temporary. USPS will forward your mail for 12 months for $1.10, but you still need to inform banks, subscription services, and other institutions directly.
Is there a checklist for moving? Yes, check out the printable moving checklist from Move.org to ensure you don’t forget any steps. This includes tasks like researching moving companies, switching addresses with utility companies, and deep cleaning your current home. Download our ultimate change of address checklist to keep your mail and important documents reaching your new address.
How do I change my address? Fill out a USPS change of address form online or at your local post office to forward mail for 12 months. Inform banks, insurance companies, and subscription services directly to ensure continued mail delivery after the forwarding period ends.
Adapted from article by Emily Garland July 08, 2024
If you’re thinking of making a move, call me today so we can make it a success!
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