Complete Address Change Checklist for New Homeowners:
Government & Legal Address Updates
USPS (United States Postal Service) - File official mail forwarding
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) - Update driver's license and vehicle registration
Social Security Administration - Update SS records
Voter Registration - Register at new polling location
Passport Agency - Update passport address
IRS (Internal Revenue Service) - File Form 8822 for tax address change
State Tax Department - Update state tax records
Selective Service (if applicable)
VA Benefits (if veteran)
Immigration Services (if applicable)
Financial Institution Address Changes
Insurance Policy Updates
Utilities & Home Services Setup
Healthcare Provider Notifications
Subscriptions & Memberships
Employment & Education Records
Online Accounts & Digital Services
Legal & Professional Services
Family & Personal Contacts
FAQ Section
When should I start changing my address?
You can officially file your change of address request with the USPS up to three months before your move. However, most people find it ideal to do so about two weeks before they move. This allows ample time for the change to be processed and for the mail to begin arriving at your new home right on schedule.
Can I change my address before closing?
Yes, you can and should change your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) before closing on your new home. I recommend setting this up as soon as you have a confirmed closing date. You can schedule the mail forwarding to begin on or just before your moving day to ensure a smooth transition. It's a key task to complete on your moving checklist.
How long does USPS mail forwarding last?
For a permanent move, the USPS will forward your mail for 12 months. During this time, First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and some other packages will be automatically rerouted to your new address. Periodicals like magazines, however, are only forwarded for 60 days. This 12-month period gives you a great buffer to update your address with every company, organization, and person you do business with, but it doesn't replace the need to do so directly. You can also pay to extend the forwarding for additional periods if needed.





