Changing your address with the postal service is a crucial step when moving. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the process, covering everything from forwarding options to special circumstances.
Understanding Mail Forwarding
Plan ahead. While mail forwarding can start within three business days, allow up to two weeks for the process to be fully implemented. Your mail will be forwarded piece by piece as it arrives at your old address.
What Types of Mail are Forwarded?
The Postal Service forwards various mail types, each with specific rules:
- Free Forwarding: First-Class Mail, periodicals (magazines and newsletters), Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage are forwarded free of charge.
- Paid Forwarding: Media Mail is forwarded, but you’ll need to pay the shipping cost from your local Post Office to your new address.
- Non-Forwardable Mail: USPS Marketing Mail is not forwarded.
Important Note: A Postal Service Address Change only updates your address with the USPS. You are responsible for updating your address with government agencies (e.g., for driver’s license, voter registration, benefits) and companies (e.g., banks, insurance providers, online retailers).
How to Change Your Postal Address
You can change your address online or in person at a Post Office.
Changing Your Address Online
- Access the Official Website: Visit the official USPS Change of Address website.
- Choose Your Move Type: Select “Individual,” “Family” (same last name), or “Business.”
- Verify Your Identity: Provide a verification code or link sent to your mobile phone.
- Pay the Fee: There’s a $1.10 identity verification fee. Your credit card billing address must match your old or new address.
- Confirmation and Delivery: Upon successful verification, you’ll receive an email confirmation. A Move Validation letter will be sent to your old address, and a Customer Notification Letter will arrive at your new address about five business days before your forwarding starts. You’ll also receive a welcome kit.
- Alternative Verification: If online verification fails, you’ll receive an email with a barcode. Take this email and acceptable photo ID to a Post Office.
Changing Your Address at the Post Office
- Visit a Post Office: Locate your nearest Post Office.
- Request a Mover’s Guide: Ask for a free Mover’s Guide packet.
- Complete the Form: Fill out PS Form 3575 and provide it to a postal worker with your photo ID for verification.
Special Circumstances for Address Changes
- Authorized Agent: Changing an address for someone else requires an in-person visit to a Post Office with proper identification and documentation (e.g., birth certificate for a minor, Power of Attorney).
- Deceased Individual: Changing the address for a deceased person requires in-person verification at a Post Office with documentation proving executor or administrator status.
- International Moves: Before moving outside the United States, you must submit your change of address request in person at a Post Office.
- Businesses: Business address changes submitted in person require documentation authorizing the request (e.g., notarized letter, power of attorney).
- Military Moves: Coordinate with your command first, as AMPS relocation information is shared with USPS. Online submissions require a .gov, .mil, or .edu email address. In-person verification is only possible within the 50 states and Puerto Rico.
Conclusion
Successfully changing your postal service address ensures your mail reaches you at your new location. Follow the appropriate steps based on your circumstances and remember to update your address with all relevant institutions and individuals. Proper planning ensures a smooth transition and minimizes the risk of missing important mail.
