How to change your address | USAGov (2024)

FAQs

What is the easiest way to change address for everything? ›

You can do so online, over the phone at 1-800-ASK-USPS, or at your local post office by asking for Form 3575. USPS charges $1 for identity verification, so have a debit or credit card on hand. They will forward mail from your old address to your new address for 12 months with primary mail and 60 days for periodicals.

To ensure the best service, always use USPS.com for all change of address activities. The Change of Address Order (PS Form 3575) is available at your local Post Office within the Mover's Guide® packet.

You can change your address with the Postal Service in less than five minutes online for a fee of $1.05—or wait in line and do it for free at your local post office.

Most people just google "change address," but if you do this, be very careful as you could be paying big bucks for this service. There are several privately owned websites who will change your address for you but then also offer a few other services you may not need, but they will charge you close to $80 to do this.

Visit your local Post Office location with acceptable photo ID and any other required documents. Request a free Mover's Guide packet. Fill out the PS Form 3575 found inside the packet, and give it to the retail associate. They will use your photo ID to verify your identity, then process your change of address request.

Provide a credit card number. This step helps the USPS verify your identity by matching the address information you provide with that listed on your card. Your card will be charged a verification fee of $1.05. (There is no charge if you perform your change of address at a physical Post Office.)

It typically takes seven to ten days from the forwarding date for mail to arrive at your new address, so it's perfectly fine to choose a date that's up to a week before your move date. You will also specify in the change of address form whether your move is permanent or temporary.

All Identity Card (IC) holders, including Singapore citizens and permanent residents who are residing overseas, are required to report a change of residential address within 28 days of moving into a new (local or overseas) residence.

It's best to change your address as soon as you know your move-in date. USPS can start forwarding your mail within three business days, but it recommends completing the request about two weeks before your move. Your mail will be forwarded to your new place as it comes, piece by piece.

What mail cannot be forwarded? ›

Standard Mail A (circulars, books, catalogs, and advertising mail) is not forwarded unless requested by the mailer. Standard Mail B (packages weighing 16 ounces or more) are forwarded locally for 12 months at no charge. You pay forwarding charges if you move outside the local area.

There is a $1 charge to change your address online. You will need a credit or debit card and a valid email address. The $1 charge to your card is an identity verification fee to prevent fraud and make sure you're the one making the change.

If you don't change your address, not only will you lose mail, which may include urgent bills or important bank statements, but you could also encounter issues with your homeowners' or renters' insurance. Some companies do require documentation of the move to transfer your policy accordingly.

Completing A Change Of Address Online

To complete a change of address online, you will need to visit the USPS in the mover guide section of their website. There you will be asked to fill out basic information, such as your name, date of birth etc.

The best way to prevent this issue is to submit an Official Change of Address online at moversguide.usps.com, in person at a Post Office™, or through your carrier.

If you get Social Security benefits (retirement, survivors, or disability) or are enrolled in Medicare, you can change your address or direct deposit information online. You can do this using the My Profile tab in your personal my Social Security account. You can also decide when the change will take effect.

Generally, people are not notified if you change your address unless YOU notify them. This applies to both postal addresses and email addresses. If you notify the Post Office, they may notify other people who send you mail at your old address. They may have to pay for “address correction requested”.