Where You Can Change Your Address Online

You can change your postal address online through the United States Postal Service (USPS) website using their Informed Delivery service, or by visiting USPS.com directly and selecting the mail forwarding option. The USPS online tool lets you submit a change of address form without visiting a post office, and the process takes about 10 minutes. You will need a valid credit or debit card to pay the fee, which is currently $1.10 for a temporary address change (up to 12 months) or $1.10 for a permanent one.

Some private mail forwarding services also offer online address changes, but they work differently than USPS. Services like UPS Store, Amazon Locker, or private mail centers let you rent a mailbox and update your address through their websites. These are useful if you need a physical street address instead of a PO Box, or if you want mail scanning and forwarding to multiple locations.

Your bank, insurance company, employer, and subscription services have their own address change systems. Most let you log into your account online and update your mailing address in your profile settings. This does not change your postal address with USPS — it only tells that specific company where to send your mail and statements.

Key Takeaways

  • USPS lets you change your address online at USPS.com using a credit or debit card, and the change takes effect within three to five business days.
  • You will need your current address, new address, and a valid payment method to complete the USPS online form.
  • Changing your address with USPS does not automatically update your address with banks, employers, or subscription services — you must contact each one separately.
  • Private mail forwarding services offer alternatives to USPS if you need a physical street address or mail scanning instead of a PO Box.

What Information You Need Before You Start

Gather your current address, your new address, and the date you want the change to take effect. The USPS system will ask you to confirm both addresses, so have them written down to avoid typos. You will also need a valid credit or debit card — USPS does not accept PayPal, digital wallets, or checks for the online change of address fee.

If you are moving to a new state or a new city, double-check your ZIP code. Entering the wrong ZIP code is one of the most common reasons a change of address gets rejected or delayed. You can look up your ZIP code on USPS.com or Google Maps before you start the form.

Step-by-Step: Changing Your Address on USPS.com

Go to USPS.com and look for the "Mail & Shipping" section at the top of the page. Click on "Change of Address" under the "Manage Your Mail" heading. You will be taken to a page that asks whether you want to change your address for yourself, your family, or your business. Select the option that matches your situation.

Enter your current address exactly as it appears on your mail. The system is strict about spelling and apartment numbers, so copy it directly from a recent piece of mail if you have one. Then enter your new address, including apartment or unit number if you have one. Choose whether the change is temporary (up to 12 months) or permanent, and select the date you want it to start.

Review the information on the confirmation page. If anything is wrong, go back and correct it before you pay. Once you submit payment, you cannot edit the form — you would have to file a new one. After payment is processed, USPS will send you a confirmation email with a tracking number. The change usually takes effect within three to five business days, though it can take up to two weeks during busy periods.

How Long the Change Takes and What Happens to Your Mail

USPS begins forwarding your mail to your new address three to five business days after your change of address takes effect. Mail that arrives at your old address before the change date will not be forwarded — it will be returned to the sender or discarded. This is why it matters to update your address with banks, employers, and subscription services as soon as you know you are moving.

Mail forwarding through USPS lasts for 12 months if you filed a temporary change, or indefinitely if you filed a permanent one. After 12 months, a temporary change expires and mail sent to your old address will no longer reach you. You can renew a temporary change before it expires by filing a new one on USPS.com.

Some mail will not be forwarded even with an active change of address on file. Government benefits, tax documents, and certified mail often require you to update your address directly with the agency or sender. Magazines and marketing mail may also not forward if the sender has not paid for forwarding service.

Updating Your Address With Banks, Employers, and Services

Changing your address with USPS does not tell your bank, insurance company, or employer where to send your mail. You must contact each one separately and update your address in their system. Most banks and insurance companies let you do this by logging into your online account and editing your profile. Look for a "Settings," "Account Information," or "Personal Details" section.

For employers, contact your HR or payroll department. For subscription services like streaming platforms or magazines, log into your account and update your billing address. For government benefits, contact the specific agency — Social Security, Medicare, your state's unemployment office, or your local housing authority. Each one has its own address change process and may require a phone call or a form sent by mail.

Update your address with the post office first, then work through your other accounts. Keep a list of every service you use so you do not forget any. This includes utilities, credit card companies, online retailers, medical offices, and any memberships you hold.

What to Do If Your Online Change Does Not Work

If your USPS change of address is rejected, the most common reason is a typo in your current or new address. Check that your apartment number, street name, and ZIP code are spelled exactly as they appear on your mail. If you are not sure, visit your local post office with a piece of mail showing your current address and ask them to verify it.

If you do not have a credit or debit card, or if you prefer not to pay online, you can file a change of address in person at any post office. Bring a photo ID and proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. The fee is the same as online, and you can pay with cash, check, or card.

If your change of address is approved but your mail is still arriving at your old address after two weeks, contact your local post office. Bring your confirmation email or tracking number. The post office can check whether the change was entered correctly and resubmit it if needed.

Alternatives to USPS for Mail Forwarding

If you need a physical street address instead of a PO Box, or if you want your mail scanned and sent to you digitally, private mail forwarding services offer other options. UPS Store locations rent mailboxes and let you update your address online through their website. Amazon Locker provides temporary package pickup locations in many cities. Private mail services like Earth Class Mail or Traveling Mailbox scan your incoming mail and let you view it on your phone or computer.

These services cost more than USPS — typically $10 to $30 per month for a mailbox rental, or $15 to $50 per month for mail scanning. They are useful if you travel frequently, run a business from home, or want to keep your home address private. However, they do not replace USPS forwarding — you still need to update your address with USPS if you are moving permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I do not have a credit card?

No, USPS requires a credit or debit card for online change of address. If you do not have one, visit your local post office in person with a photo ID and proof of your new address. The fee is the same, and you can pay with cash or check.

How long does it take for my change of address to start working?

USPS usually begins forwarding mail three to five business days after your change takes effect. During busy moving seasons, it can take up to two weeks. Mail that arrives before the change date will not be forwarded.

Will my change of address automatically update my bank and insurance company?

No. USPS only forwards mail to your new address — it does not notify your bank, insurance company, or other services. You must contact each one separately and update your address in their system.

What if I filed a temporary change of address and want to make it permanent?

File a new permanent change of address on USPS.com before your temporary one expires. You will pay the fee again, but the new change will take effect when ready after the temporary one ends.

Can I change my address online if I am moving to a different country?

USPS online change of address only works for moves within the United States. If you are moving internationally, visit your local post office or contact USPS directly for options. International mail forwarding is not available through the standard change of address system.