The Post Office Change of Address is the first step, but it only forwards mail
A USPS Change of Address (also called a mail forwarding request) tells the Post Office to send your mail to your new location. You can file it online at usps.com, by mail, or in person at any Post Office branch. The online method takes about five minutes and costs $1.10 for a residential address change.
Mail forwarding lasts for 12 months. After that, mail addressed to your old address stops being forwarded and returns to the sender. The Post Office does not automatically notify banks, insurance companies, government agencies, or employers — you have to contact them separately. Many people file a Change of Address and assume they are done, then miss bills or important notices because they never updated their actual accounts.
If you are moving to a military address, a temporary address, or outside the United States, the process differs slightly. The Post Office website walks you through the right option based on your situation.
Key Takeaways
- A USPS Change of Address forwards mail for 12 months but does not notify your bank, insurance company, or government agencies — you must contact each one separately.
- You can file online at usps.com for $1.10, by mail, or in person at a Post Office branch for free.
- Banks, credit card companies, and insurance providers need your new address in writing or through their online account portal to update your records.
- Government agencies like the IRS, Social Security, and your state's DMV require separate address updates through their own systems.
- Updating your address with employers, subscription services, and utility companies prevents missed paychecks, bills, and service interruptions.
What to do before you file a Change of Address
Gather your new address in full, including the ZIP code. If you do not have it yet, you can look it up on usps.com by entering the street address. Have your current address and the date you want the forwarding to start — the Post Office can begin forwarding when ready or up to 30 days in the future.
If you are moving with a spouse or partner, you can file one Change of Address for both of you if you share a last name and address. If your names differ or you are moving to different addresses, you need separate requests. The Post Office charges $1.10 per person.
How to file online, by mail, or in person
Online: Go to usps.com, select "Mail & Packages," then "Change of Address." Answer the questions about your current and new address, the date you want forwarding to start, and whether this is a temporary or permanent move. Pay $1.10 by credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation number by email. Processing takes three to five business days.
By mail: read Form 3575 from usps.com or pick one up at your local Post Office. Fill in your current address, new address, and the date forwarding should begin. Mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks. This method is free but slower.
In person: Bring a photo ID and proof of your new address (a lease, utility bill, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days) to any Post Office branch. Staff will fill out the form with you. It costs $1.10 and takes effect within three to five business days. This is the fastest free option if you have the required documents.
Updating your bank, credit cards, and insurance
Contact your bank directly — do not wait for mail to arrive. Call the number on the back of your debit card or check your online banking portal for an address change option. Most banks let you update your address through their website or mobile app without calling. You will need to provide your new address and may be asked to verify your identity by answering security questions or providing the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Credit card companies, mortgage lenders, and auto insurance providers all need separate updates. Log into each account online and look for "Account Settings" or "Profile" — most have an address change option there. If you cannot find it online, call the customer service number on your statement. Keep a written list of which companies you have contacted and when, so you do not accidentally miss one.
If you have a safe deposit box at a bank, notify them in person with your new address. Some banks require you to sign a new signature card when you move.
Notifying government agencies and the IRS
The IRS does not automatically receive your Change of Address from the Post Office. If you expect a tax refund or owe taxes, update your address with the IRS before filing your return. You can do this by calling 800-829-1040 or by filing your return with your new address — the IRS will use the address on your return. If you have already filed and need to update, call the same number.
Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires a separate address update for your driver's license and vehicle registration. Most states let you update online through their DMV website. Some require you to visit in person or mail in a form. Check your state's DMV website for the exact process and any fees.
If you receive Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Veterans benefits, contact the agency directly. Social Security has a website where you can update your address, or you can call 1-800-772-1213. The Department of Veterans Affairs has its own address update process through VA.gov or by calling 1-800-827-1000.
Updating employers, subscriptions, and utilities
Tell your employer about your move as soon as you know the date. Provide your new address in writing or through your company's HR system. This ensures your paycheck, W-2 form, and any benefits paperwork reach you. If you have direct deposit, your employer does not need to update anything — the bank handles it — but notify them anyway so your personnel file is current.
Contact subscription services, streaming platforms, and online retailers where you have saved payment methods. Most let you update your address through account settings. This is important because some services use your address to determine which content is available in your region or to verify your identity if you forget your password.
Call or visit the websites of your electric, gas, water, and internet providers to update your address. Provide a move-out date for your old address and a move-in date for your new one. Ask whether you need to schedule a final meter reading at your old address or whether the utility will handle it remotely. Some utilities charge a reconnection fee at your new address.
What happens if you miss updating someone
If you forget to update your address with a bank or credit card company, mail will be returned to the sender after your 12-month forwarding period ends. The company may flag your account as having an undeliverable address, which can affect your credit if bills go unpaid because you never received them. Check your credit report a few months after moving to make sure no accounts show missed payments.
If you do not update your address with the IRS and are owed a refund, the check will be returned and the IRS will hold it. You can claim it later, but the process takes longer. If you owe taxes, the IRS will eventually locate you, but penalties and interest will accumulate.
Missing a utility company update usually means service does not start at your new address on time, or your old address continues to be billed. Contact the company when ready if this happens and ask them to correct the account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address before I move?
Yes. When you file your Change of Address online or in person, you can select a start date up to 30 days in the future. This lets you file early and have forwarding begin on your actual move date. If you file by mail, allow extra time for processing.
What counts as proof of my new address?
The Post Office accepts a lease, mortgage statement, utility bill, or government-issued ID with your new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you are moving to a new home and do not have a utility bill yet, a signed lease or mortgage paperwork works.
Do I need to update my address if I have direct deposit?
Your employer does not need to update your bank information — direct deposit is tied to your bank account number, not your address. However, tell your employer your new address anyway so your personnel file and any mailed documents (like W-2 forms) reach you.
How long does mail forwarding last?
USPS mail forwarding lasts 12 months from the date it begins. After that, mail addressed to your old address is returned to the sender. You can renew forwarding by filing another Change of Address before the 12 months expire.
What if I move multiple times in a year?
You can file a new Change of Address each time you move. The new request cancels the previous one. File the new request before you move so forwarding begins on your move date. Keep track of which address is currently active with the Post Office to avoid confusion.