Guide · US edition · Updated 2026-10-29

Change of Address Checklist: Who To Notify When You Move

Mail forwarding is a safety net, not a plan. Forwarded mail doesn't last forever, and some senders (like many banks and government agencies) won't forward at all. Update the important ones directly.

Start with USPS

File a change of address at USPS.com or at a post office. Online, USPS charges a small identity-verification fee ($1.25 at the time of writing). At a post office you can ask for the paper form instead. Pick a start date a few days before your move.

Government

☐ IRS: file Form 8822 (or use your new address on your next return)
☐ Social Security: update online at ssa.gov if you get benefits
☐ DMV: driver's license and vehicle registration. Many states set a deadline after a move, often between 10 and 30 days, and moving states usually means a new license
☐ Voter registration: update at vote.gov
☐ State tax agency, if you move states
☐ Veterans Affairs, Medicare/Medicaid, SNAP or other benefits, if any

Money

☐ Banks and credit unions
☐ Credit cards
☐ Loans: student, auto, mortgage
☐ Retirement and investment accounts
☐ Payment apps

Insurance and health

☐ Car insurance (rates can change by ZIP code)
☐ Renters or homeowners insurance (end the old policy and start a new one on the right days)
☐ Health, dental and vision insurance
☐ Doctors, dentist, pharmacy, vet

Work and school

☐ Employer HR / payroll, so your W-2 comes to the right place
☐ Schools and childcare
☐ Alumni associations

Everyday accounts

☐ Online shopping accounts (Amazon, etc.)
☐ Subscriptions and memberships
☐ Phone carrier
☐ Charities you donate to

Tip: keep a tracker

Write each account, the date you changed it and how you did it. When something still goes to the old address in three months, you'll know what you missed.

General information, not legal or tax advice.

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