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Introduction

Moving to a new home is a major milestone, but the process doesn’t end once the boxes are unpacked. One of the most critical—yet often overlooked—tasks is updating your address with all necessary institutions. Failing to do so can result in:

• Missed bills and late fees
• Lost tax documents or legal notices
• Interrupted services (banking, utilities, insurance)
• DMV fines for outdated licenses

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of updating your address, ensuring a seamless transition to your new home. Plus, we’ll share expert tips from Moving Wizz, a trusted resource for stress-free relocations.

Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Create a Moving Address Change Checklist

Why a Checklist Matters

• Prevents oversights (e.g., forgetting to update voter registration)
• Saves time by grouping similar tasks
• Reduces stress by breaking the process into manageable steps

What to Include in Your Checklist

• Government & Legal: USPS, DMV, IRS, Voter Registration, Social Security Administration
• Financial Institutions: Banks, Credit Card Companies, Loan Providers, Investment Accounts
• Utilities & Home Services: Electricity, Water, Internet, Trash, Security
• Insurance Providers: Auto, Homeowners/Renters, Health, Life
• Subscriptions & Online Accounts: Amazon, Streaming Services, Magazines
• Personal Contacts: Family, Friends, Employers, Doctors, Schools

Tools to Help You Stay Organized

• Moving Wizz’s Relocation Planner
• Google Sheets or Trello
• Printable Checklists

Pro Tip: Set deadlines for each task (e.g., “Update USPS within 1 week of moving”).

Step 2: Update Your Address with USPS (Mail Forwarding)

How to Submit a Change of Address

• Online: Visit USPS Official Change of Address site and pay $1.10
• In-Person: Fill out PS Form 3575 at the post office
• By Mail: Send completed PS Form 3575 (5–7 business days to process)

Important Details

• Mail Forwarding Duration: 12 months for mail, 6 months for periodicals
• Not Forwarded: UPS/FedEx packages, junk mail

Bonus Tip: Update important senders directly to avoid gaps after forwarding ends.

Step 3: Notify Government Agencies

1. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

• Required within 30 days in most states
• Update online or in-person with proof of residency

2. Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

• File Form 8822 or call 1-800-829-1040

3. Voter Registration

• Update via Vote.gov or by mail

4. Social Security Administration

• Required for SSI, disability, retirement beneficiaries
• Update online or call 1-800-772-1213

Step 4: Update Financial Institutions

Banks & Credit Unions

• Update online, via app, or in-person with ID

Credit Card Companies

• Update address under profile/settings section

Loan Providers

• Mortgage: Contact your servicer
• Student Loans: Update via your servicer or StudentAid.gov

Pro Tip: Set up paperless billing to reduce mail dependency.

Step 5: Transfer or Set Up Utilities

Key Providers to Notify

• Electricity/Gas – 3–5 days before move
• Water/Sewage – 1–2 weeks before move
• Internet/Cable – 2+ weeks before move
• Trash/Recycling – After move-in

Pro Tip: Take meter readings at your old home to avoid overcharges.

Step 6: Update Insurance Policies

1. Auto Insurance

• Call or update online

2. Homeowners/Renters Insurance

• Cancel old policy; activate new one for move-in date

3. Health Insurance

• Log in and update your address for accurate provider access

Step 7: Update Online Accounts & Subscriptions

Critical Accounts to Update

• Amazon, eBay, Walmart
• Meal Kits like Blue Apron
• Netflix, Hulu, Disney+
• Magazine Subscriptions

Pro Tip: Use a password manager like LastPass to track account logins.

Step 8: Notify Friends, Family & Professional Contacts

How to Announce Your Move

• Send an email or text message
• Post a "We Moved!" update on social media
• Mail physical change-of-address cards

Final Checklist Recap

• USPS Mail Forwarding
• DMV & Voter Registration
• Banks & Credit Cards
• Utilities
• Insurance Policies
• Online Subscriptions
• Personal Network

Need Help Moving? Contact Moving Wizz!

Updating your address is just one part of a successful move. Let Moving Wizz handle the rest!

📞 Call Us: (866) 991-0466
🌐 Visit: MovingWizz.com

Happy moving! 🏠✨