Changing your address, in most cases, is a fairly straightforward procedure. However, you should know the steps or you could lose valuable time and posible important mail along the way.

Here are 5 things to know:

Confirming Your New Address: Verify your new address is crucial. Before initiating the change of address process, double-check with your realtor or landlord to ensure you have the correct and complete postal address. Also, confirm the ZIP code to avoid any mail delivery mishaps.

Temporary vs. Permanent Change of Address:

Temporary Change of Address:

• Ideal for short-term moves (e.g., seasonal relocations).
• Mail forwarding from your old address to the new one for up to 6 months (with an option to extend to 12 months).
• Business mailers won’t receive your temporary address, reducing junk mail.

Permanent Change of Address:

• Recommended for long-term stays.
• Your mailing address changes permanently.
• Registered in the National Change of Address database (NCOA), which may result in some junk mail.

Individual or Family Change of Address:

• If family members have different surnames or only some individuals are moving, fill out separate change of address requests.
• For families moving together with the same surname, a single form covers the entire household.

Processing Time for Change of Address:

• Generally, it takes about 7 business days for the change of address to take effect.
• Factors affecting processing time include location, time of year, and the volume of requests being handled.
• Expect a 3-day processing time for the old address and an additional 3 days for the new address.

Timing for Change of Address:

• Opinions vary, but changing your address at least two weeks before your move is advisable.
• This ensures that your mail is forwarded to your new home by the time you arrive.
• Remember, staying organized during your move will help streamline the process.

Here are ways to change your address when you move:

Change Your Address Online:

• Convenient and time-saving.
• Visit the official USPS Change of Address Form at USPS.com/move.
• Fill out the required fields accurately.
• Provide a valid email address for confirmation.
• Expect a $1 verification fee to verify your identity.
• Wait for email confirmation of the address change.

Change Your Address In Person:

• Visit your nearest post office.
• Ask for PS Form 3575 and fill it out on the spot.
• Alternatively, download and complete the form at home before your visit.
• Submit the filled-out form to the postmaster.
• No cost for changing your address in person.

Change Your Address Over the Phone:

• Call 1-800-ASK-USPS and follow recorded instructions.
• Have a credit card or debit card ready for the $1 identity verification fee.

Change Your Address By Mail:

• Print out PS Form 3575 at home.
• Fill it out by hand.
• Mail it to the USPS.