Just Moved? Here's Your Change of Address Checklist 

You just bought a new home. You're ready to unpack and get organized so you can settle down as quickly as possible. It's a great place to start but don't forget a major part of your moving checklist includes notifying all the important people and companies about your new address.  

You'll need to update your contact information with family, friends, your employer, insurance providers, banks, credit card companies, utility companies, delivery services and both state and federal government agencies – just to name a few.

Updating Your Address 

The very first order of business should be to head to USPS.com and visit the "Change of Address" page. From there, you can set up mail forwarding to make sure any mail sent to your old address will makes its way to your new home. For friends and family, a super quick text, or email should do the trick. These days, most companies do let you update your address online in "account settings". You can most likely knock out these tasks in an hour or less if you stay organized.   

There are other tasks that may take a little bit longer. When it comes to official documents like a driver's license, vehicle registration, or voter registration, you may need to visit your state's DMV website or even possibly go in person to finalize the changes. 

Notify Government Agencies 

Address changes aren't automatically shared across all departments within the government. There are also state and federal agencies, which do not share information with each other too. You'll need to update each one individually. Here are some of the most common that you'll need to address:  

IRS (Internal Revenue Service): Be sure that your address is up to date for tax documents, stimulus payments, and refunds. Form 8822 can be used or you can also update it online via your IRS account.  

Social Security Administration (SSA): If you are someone who receives Social Security benefits, update your address at ssa.gov. 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): If you're not a U.S. citizen, it is required by law to update your address within 10 days of moving. 

Selective Service System: If you're a U.S. male citizen or immigrant ages 18 – 25, it is required to update your address.  

Veterans Affairs (VA): For those that receive VA benefits, you can update your address on va.gov. 

Moving to a New State 

If your move took you across state lines (and possibly even to a new city), you'll need to update your residency in a number of areas.  

Driver's License & Vehicle Registration: You normally have around 30 – 60 days to get a new driver's license and vehicle plates, but each state has its own laws.  

Voter Registration: Most municipalities have a website to update your voter information. In some states, you may need to go in person.  

State Taxes: Some states have income taxes while other do not. Be sure to understand your new state's requirements when it comes to taxes and notify your former state if necessary.  

Health Insurance: If you're on a health care plan with the state exchange through the Affordable Care Act, moving out of stat qualifies you for a "Special Enrollment Period". Look at HealthCare.gov to find a new plan.  

Utilities, Insurance, and Childcare 

Don't forget to arrange the transfer or cancellation of utilities like electric, water, gas, internet, cable, trash, and recycling services. Inform all relevant insurance providers including homeowners, renters, auto and health insurance. Rates can also change by zip code so you may even get a discount on some insurances. Notify your doctor, dentist, specialists, and even you vet if you have pets. 

If you have children, notify their school or daycare. If you're staying within the same district, simply update the address with the current school. If you're moving to a new district, be sure to register with the new one. 

Banks and Work 

While this seems like a long list so far, there are still other address change updates to keep in mind. Notifying your bank of an address change right away is a good idea for any financial transactions. Credit card companies will need your new zip code to avoid any issues with your new mailing address.  

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your new billing address to avoid issues with purchases, fraud alerts, and mailed statements. Be sure to inform all relevant insurance providers of your new address, including homeowners or renters, auto, and health insurance, as rates and coverage may vary by ZIP code.  

Notifying your work's HR department is an important step as well. They normally deliver your W-2 forms and benefit information so that is a necessity. Update any subscriptions and delivery services. 

It's Work, But Worth It 

Changing your address may feel overwhelming, but once it's done, you can rest easy knowing that everything from your packages to your tax documents will be reaching you at your new home. Start with the most important address changes and work your way down from there. Making sure everyone is up to date with your new address can help you from any issues moving forward. That tax refund you're waiting for will be sent directly to your new address rather than you having to track it down.  

Still thinking about moving and need more answers on address changes? Connect with a REMAX agent to make sure you have the support of a local real estate expert who understands your market. They can help you navigate every step of the transition with ease and confidence.