Address Change Checklist: Who to Notify When You Move
We know that moving can be stressful for several reasons, one being all the tiny details that need to come together to get comfortable in new surroundings. The key is to stay organized and have a clear plan. If you’ve recently relocated or are planning to move to a new home or apartment soon, our free printable checklist can help make sure you’ve notified all the right people.
Government Agencies
The US Postal Service
When you move, your mail should too! Submitting a forwarding address at USPS should be one of the first things you do when you move to ensure you don’t miss out on receiving any essential documents or packages via mail. You can safely and efficiently change your address online and select a specific start date for USPS to begin forwarding your mail. Make sure to do this about a week before you move to prevent any gaps in the forwarding process. To mitigate fraudulent activity USPS charges a $1.05 fee to verify that it is you who wants to change your address. After you input your information and pay the small fee, your forwarding address is valid for up to 1 year.
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Up next, it’s time to take a trip to everybody’s favorite place, the DMV. Though it might be tempting to put off, don’t skip updating your address with the DMV. All states require their residents to have a valid state driver’s license and vehicle registration to operate a motor vehicle legally. Your driver’s license is not considered valid if your information is incorrect. However, not all states require you to get a new license. Instead, you just need to submit a change of residence online. Address update processes and timelines may differ from state to state, so be sure to double-check your state’s laws & regulations.
The IRS
You can quickly update your address with the IRS via their 8822 online form. If you want to continue to receive your tax returns for the next year, this step should be near the top of your to-do list.
Social Security
Updating your address with the Social Security Administration is especially crucial if you are a current recipient of Social Security or Medicare benefits. Changing your address for social security can be done online as well.
Voter Registration
It’s never too early to start preparing for election day. Updating the address associated with your voter registration will help you determine the voting district you’re in or the polling location where you may place your ballot on election day.
U.S. Customs & Immigration Services
Even if you do not currently have an open case with immigration, you’re highly encouraged to
update your address on the USCIS website to ensure you receive all correspondence and
benefits and avoid possible delays.
Financial Companies
Banks/Credit Unions
If you are still receiving paper statements, it’s crucial that they are sent to the right place. We all know how painful it is awaiting your new debit card in the mail after you lose it, so don’t make that process any lengthier than it needs to be. Log on to update the billing address associated with your bank accounts ASAP. This is also an excellent time to update your billing address for any credit or debit cards, and order some updated checks to prevent any future discrepancies. Most banks allow you to complete all this online via their website or mobile app.
Investment Services
See those numbers grow! Ensure you notify any firms holding your investments so your statements are sent to the right place.
Loan Issuers
Make sure to let your loan issuers, know that you moved to stay ahead of your payments.
Credit Reporting Agencies
Don’t forget to give any credit reporting agency you use a heads up that you moved, so you don’t miss any critical updates.
Payment Services
If you use any online or mobile payment services such as Venmo or PayPal, don’t forget to update your shipping and billing addresses to make sure your payment goes through, and your packages are delivered to the correct location.
Utilities
Gas & Electric
Unless you’re willing to sweat through your clothes or pay the electricity bill for the new tenants at your old place, don’t wait too long to transfer your gas and electric utilities. Pro Tip: Call in advance to schedule the start of the utility services at your new place the morning of your move. Doing this will help avoid any unwanted hiccups, and make your moving experience as comfortable as possible.
Water
Depending on which utilities you will be responsible for, you may need to notify your water company to make sure a shower is waiting for you after a long day of moving.
Internet, Cable, Phone
We know those first few days without internet after moving into a new place can be rough. Your cable and internet providers don’t want to see you miss Sunday Football or Bachelor Monday either, so make sure to notify them of your address change. Your phone provider will also need to be updated, so they know the appropriate place to send any bills or updates. Don’t forget your cell phone company too!
Insurance
Homeowner/Renter’s Insurance
It’s essential to transfer your insurance policy over to the correct address to ensure that any future claims you file on your new home are covered. If you are renting, be sure to get this taken care of early, as some landlords and property management companies may require proof of coverage before your move-in date. You might also want to ask your provider if your plan offers coverage for items that are being transported during the moving process as well.
Car Insurance
Your auto insurance company may not offer coverage at your new location, so make sure to reach out to your policyholder to talk through options or modifications to your current plan.
Health & Life Insurance
Health & life insurance providers will need your updated address on file to fulfill any claims you may file in the future.
People/Animal Care
Your Current Employer
Even if you receive your paycheck via direct deposit, you will want to contact HR about your moving plans so that they have the correct information on file for tax purposes.
Doctors/Dentists
Even if you're staying in the same area, it’s still a good idea to update your medical providers about a change of address, so they know where to send any forthcoming mail or bills. If you are moving to a new area, your doctor may also provide you with any referrals you may need.
Lawyers
If you have a particular lawyer or firm you trust, make sure to update them of your moving plans. Though they may not be able to assist you if you are moving to a new state, they will surely be able to provide you with some trusted recommendations.
Vets
Sigh, just another reason we wish dogs could talk. Let your vet know about your change of address so they can update the information stored in your pet’s microchip. Or, in the case of an emergency, they’ll know where to go in case they need to make a house call.
Friends and Family
Your loved ones will want to know where to send your birthday cards and holiday gifts, so don’t forget to update everyone about your moving plans. Make it easier on yourself by sending an update via e-mail and BCC everyone who needs to know. Done!
Online Services & Memberships
Streaming Services
Updating your streaming service account information isn’t quite as crucial as informing your cable company but should still be somewhere on your to-do list. This way, you won’t miss out on any paper statements or exclusive offers in the mail.
Online Shopping Sites
Take a moment to go through any online retailers you frequent and update your shipping and billing addresses. With services like Amazon offering one-click check-out options, it’s easy to place an order without double-checking the shipping details. Two-day shipping isn’t quite as cool if it gets sent to the wrong address.
Physical Retail Store Clubs
If you shop at any physical shopping clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club, make sure you update them with your new address, so you don’t miss out on any deals in the mail.
Magazine Subscription Services
Make sure you update any magazine or newspaper services you subscribe to, so you don’t miss any upcoming issues in the mail! Most services let you do this online or over the phone.
Religious Institutions
If you attend any religious institutions online or in-person, be sure to alert them of your change of address so you can stay up-to-date on all the community happenings that get sent out in the mail.
Find Your Next Home with Shea
Now that you know who to notify when you move, find your dream home with Shea Homes. Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned homebuyer, Shea has all the tools and we will be here to help every step of the way. Find your home by exploring our various communities on our website, or contact us if you have any questions about our communities.