Submit Your Change of Address to USPS First

The fastest way to redirect your mail is through the United States Postal Service using their Change of Address (COA) form. You can file this online at usps.com, by mail, or in person at your local post office. The online method takes about 10 minutes and costs $1.10; filing by mail or in person is free but takes longer to process.

To file online, go to usps.com/manage, click "Mail & Packages," then select "Change of Address." You will need your current address, new address, the date you want the change to take effect, and a valid payment method for the $1.10 fee. USPS will send a confirmation postcard to your old address within three to five days to verify the change is legitimate. Your mail will begin forwarding after that postcard arrives and you confirm receipt—usually within seven to ten business days total.

If you file in person or by mail, bring or send a completed PS Form 3575 (available at any post office or online). Processing takes two to three weeks this way. The change lasts for 12 months; after that, mail stops forwarding and returns to sender unless you file again.

Key Takeaways

  • USPS online filing at usps.com/manage costs $1.10 and starts forwarding mail within seven to ten business days after you confirm a postcard sent to your old address.
  • In-person or mail filing using PS Form 3575 is free but takes two to three weeks and requires a trip to the post office or envelope and stamp.
  • Your address change lasts 12 months; after that you must file again if you want forwarding to continue.
  • Notify banks, insurance companies, employers, and subscription services separately—USPS forwarding does not reach them automatically.
  • File your change at least two weeks before moving to avoid missing time-sensitive mail like tax documents or bills.

Notify Your Bank and Financial Institutions

Banks, credit card companies, and investment firms need your new address in their records so they can send statements, tax forms, and fraud alerts to the right place. Call the customer service number on the back of your card or log into your online account and update your address in the profile or account settings section. Most banks process address changes within one to three business days.

If you have a mortgage or auto loan, contact your lender directly—do not assume the payment processor has your correct address. Ask them to confirm they received the change and update both your mailing address and your service address if they differ. Some lenders mail documents to one address and statements to another.

Update Your Address With Your Employer and Tax Agencies

Tell your employer's human resources or payroll department about your move so they can send W-2 forms and other tax documents to your new address. If you are self-employed or have rental income, update your address with the IRS by filing Form 8822 (Change of Address) or by updating it in your IRS online account at irs.gov if you have one set up.

State tax agencies also need your new address. Most states let you update it through their tax department website or by calling the number on your state tax return. Do this before tax season if you moved during the year, so you receive your refund at the correct address.

Change Your Address With Insurance Companies

Contact your auto, home, renters, and health insurance companies to update your address. For auto and home insurance, the address change may affect your premium because rates vary by location. Call the agent or customer service line, or log into your online account to make the change yourself. Most insurers process address changes the same day you request them.

If you are moving to a different state, ask your insurance company whether your current policy is still valid there. Some insurers do not cover certain states, and you may need to switch companies or update your coverage. Do this before your move date so you are not without coverage during the transition.

Update Government Agencies and Licenses

Your driver's license and vehicle registration must show your new address. Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to see whether you can update your address online, by mail, or only in person. Some states charge a small fee for address changes; others do it free. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days usually works).

If you receive benefits from Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, or other government programs, update your address with those agencies. You can often do this online through their portals, by phone, or by visiting a local office. Notify the Veterans Administration if you receive VA benefits, and update your address with your local voter registration office so you can vote at your new location.

Notify Subscription Services and Memberships

Log into accounts for streaming services, gym memberships, magazine subscriptions, and online shopping sites to update your address. Most services let you do this in your account settings. For services that do not have online accounts, call customer service with your account number and request the change.

If you have a P.O. Box, decide whether you want to keep it at your old location or move it to a post office near your new home. You can transfer a P.O. Box online at usps.com or in person at either post office. Moving a box costs the same as opening a new one and takes effect when ready.

Create a Checklist for Services You Use

Before you move, write down every service that has your address on file. This includes utilities, internet providers, cell phone companies, doctors' offices, dentists, pharmacies, veterinarians, and any clubs or organizations you belong to. Go through the list and update each one at least two weeks before your move date.

Keep a record of which services you have updated and when. This helps you track down any mail that still arrives at your old address and lets you follow up if a company does not process your change. Some services take longer than others, and a written record prevents you from forgetting which ones still need updating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online with USPS without paying the $1.10 fee?

No, the online filing fee is $1.10 and is required. You can file for free by mail or in person at your post office using PS Form 3575, but processing takes two to three weeks instead of one to two weeks.

What counts as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government-issued ID with your new address all work. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance policy also counts at most agencies.

What happens to mail that arrives after my 12-month forwarding period ends?

Mail addressed to your old address will be returned to the sender marked "No Forwarding Address on File." If you want forwarding to continue, file a new change of address form before the 12 months expire.

Do I need to notify my landlord or previous landlord about my new address?

Yes, if you are moving out of a rental, give your landlord your new address so they can send your security deposit refund and any other documents to the correct place. Include it in your move-out notice or in a separate letter.

Can I file a change of address for someone else?

No, USPS requires the person whose address is changing to file the form themselves or authorize someone in writing. If you are moving a family member who cannot file on their own, you can file on their behalf with a signed power of attorney or guardianship document.