Official USPS Change of Address (2025 Guide)

Last updated 1 month ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter but it also comes with a lengthy to-do list. Among many tasks, updating your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) helps you to avoid missing important mail.

Starting with the Basics

Only use official USPS websites. Third-party sites charge $40+ for services that cost $1.25 or are free through official channels. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) actively warns the public about these change-of-address scams.

Official USPS Resources

• Official Online Portal: usps.com/move or moversguide.usps.com
• Online Submission Cost: $1.25 (identity verification fee, not a service fee)
• In-Person Submission Cost: Free of charge
• Manage Existing Request: managemymove.usps.com
• Customer Service: 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777)

Timeline Summary

Submit your request at least two weeks before your planned moving date to ensure seamless mail forwarding.

Understand Your Options: Which Change of Address is Right for You?

The USPS offers several mail management services that are sometimes confused with each other.

Types of Moves

Permanent Move

• For individuals, families, or businesses relocating indefinitely
• Forwards First-Class Mail, First-Class Package Service, and Priority Mail for 12 months
• Forwards periodicals (magazines, newsletters) for 60 days only
• Most common type of change of address

Temporary Move

• For relocations lasting between 15 days and one year
• Perfect for students, seasonal workers, or extended temporary assignments
• Same forwarding rules as permanent moves
• Can be converted to permanent if circumstances change

Move Categories

When submitting your request, you’ll need to specify:

Individual: Single person moving. Also use when members of a household are moving to different new addresses (each person needs separate request).

Family: Entire household where every member shares the same last name and is moving to the same new address.

Business: For when an entire organization is relocating.

Service Comparison: Your Range of Options

Many users think they need a “change of address” when a different USPS service would better meet their needs:

Method 1: Updating Your Address Online

For many, the most convenient way to update their address with the USPS is through the online portal. This method allows you to complete the entire process from home, at any time.

Accessing the Official Website

Navigate to the official USPS Change of Address website. You can find it by visiting usps.com/move or moversguide.usps.com.

Again, It’s crucial to use the official USPS website to avoid unofficial third-party sites that often charge unnecessary and inflated fees for a service that is either free or very low-cost through the USPS. Always look for the official USPS branding and ensure the URL clearly indicates usps.com or moversguide.usps.com.

Completing the Online Form

Once on the official website, you’ll need to select the type of move you’re making:

• “Individual” (only forwards mail addressed to you)
• “Family” (forwards mail for everyone with the same last name)
• “Business”

After selecting the move type, you’ll fill out a form with:

• Your contact details (email address and phone number)
• Your old and new addresses (including apartment or unit numbers)
• The date you want mail forwarding to begin
• Whether the move is temporary or permanent

Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid any delays. Pay particular attention to ZIP codes and apartment numbers, as these are common sources of errors.

Identity Verification and Payment

To prevent fraud and ensure the security of your mail, the USPS requires identity verification for online address changes. This process involves:

1. Payment of $1.25 identity verification fee using a valid credit or debit card
2. Address matching requirement: The billing address on your card must match either your old or new address for verification to be successful
3. Security purpose: This fee is solely for verifying your identity online and protects your personal information from unauthorized changes

This is not a service fee but a security measure to confirm your identity and prevent unauthorized address changes.

Navigating the mymove.com Handoff

After payment is processed on the USPS website, users are often redirected to mymove.com. This transition often causes user anxiety and confusion, as it can appear that the COA request is incomplete or being held contingent on signing up for third-party offers.

Important clarifications:

• The website mymove.com is an official USPS partner and this redirection is legitimate
• Your COA request is complete once payment is accepted and you receive confirmation email from USPS
• The purpose of mymove.com is to offer optional move-related services like discount coupons and voter registration assistance
• Interaction is entirely optional – using or declining offers on mymove.com has no effect on your successful address change submission
• You can safely close the window after receiving your USPS confirmation

Confirmation Process

Upon successful online identity verification, the USPS will:

1. Send immediate confirmation email with a unique Confirmation Code – keep this safe as you’ll need it to modify or cancel your request later
2. Mail a Move Validation Letter to your old address within a few business days of submitting your request
3. Send a Customer Notification Letter to your new address approximately five business days before your change of address start date, containing your confirmation code and possibly a welcome kit with coupons from USPS partners

Following your specified start date, your mail will begin to be rerouted to your new address piece by piece.

When Online Verification Fails

In some instances, you might not be able to verify your identity online. If this happens:

1. USPS will send you an email with further instructions and a barcode
2. Print the email and bring it with an acceptable photo ID to your local post office
3. Complete identity verification in person to activate your request

Situations Requiring In-Person Submission

While the online method is convenient, these specific situations require in-person submission:

• Moving outside the United States
• Submitting a change of address request for someone else as an “Authorized Agent”
• Unable to verify your identity online
• Managing mail for a deceased person

Below you. can find guidance for how to address these situations in person.

Method 2: Updating Your Address in Person at Your Local Post Office

If you prefer a more traditional approach or if your situation requires it, updating your address in person is straightforward and completely free.

Visiting Your Local Post Office

The first step is to visit your nearest post office location during business hours. You can easily find the closest post office by using the locator tool on the USPS website.

Requesting a Mover’s Guide Packet

Once inside, ask a retail associate for a free Mover’s Guide packet. These packets are readily available and contain:

• Useful information about moving
• The necessary Change-of-Address form (PS Form 3575)
• Coupons and offers from various moving-related businesses
• Tips for organizing your move

Filling Out PS Form 3575

Inside the Mover’s Guide packet, you’ll find PS Form 3575, the official Mail Forwarding Change of Address Order form. Carefully fill out all the required fields:

• Old address information (complete with apartment numbers and ZIP code)
• New address information (complete with apartment numbers and ZIP code)
• Desired start date for mail forwarding
• Type of move (individual, family, or business)
• Temporary or permanent designation

Ensure that all details are accurate and legible to prevent any processing errors. Use block letters and double-check ZIP codes.

Providing Identification

To verify your identity, you’ll need to present acceptable photo ID to the retail associate when you submit the form. Acceptable forms of identification include:

Primary forms of ID:

• State-issued driver’s license or non-driver’s license ID card (where the name and address match either your old or new address)
• U.S. Passport (which may require a secondary form of identification)
• Uniformed Services Identification Card (also potentially requiring a secondary ID)

Recommended secondary identification that includes your name and either your old or new address:

• Lease agreement
• Mortgage documentation
• Voter registration card
• Insurance policy
• Utility bill
• Bank statement

Submitting the Form

Once you’ve completed PS Form 3575 and have your photo ID ready:

1. Give the form to the retail associate at the counter
2. Present your photo ID for verification
3. Retail associate processes your request using your ID to verify identity
4. Receive acknowledgment that your request has been submitted

Cost

One of the major benefits of changing your address in person at a post office is that it’s completely free of charge. There is no fee associated with:

• Obtaining the Mover’s Guide packet
• Submitting PS Form 3575 in person
• Identity verification process

Special Cases for In-Person Submissions

Certain situations mandate in-person address changes:

International moves: If you’re moving outside the United States, you must submit your request at a post office before you leave the country.

Authorized Agent submissions: If you’re submitting a change of address for someone else, you’ll need to bring acceptable ID along with additional documentation:

• For a child under 18: Birth certificate is required
• For someone unable to act for themselves: You’ll need to provide Power of Attorney
• For a deceased person: You must present documents showing you are the executor or administrator authorized to manage their mail (a death certificate alone is not sufficient)

Business submissions: Businesses submitting a change of address in person must provide documentation such as:

• Notarized letter
• Power of attorney
• Letter on company letterhead signed by someone in a leadership role
• Proof they are an “Authorized Agent”

Method 3: Updating Your Address by Mail

While less common than online or in-person methods, you can also update your address by mail using USPS Form PS 3575.

Obtaining PS Form 3575

You can obtain PS Form 3575 by:

• Visiting your local post office and requesting a Mover’s Guide packet (recommended method)
• The form is included in the free Mover’s Guide packet

While some third-party websites might offer the form for download, it’s best to get the official form directly from the USPS to ensure you’re using the correct, current version.

Completing the Form

Once you have the form:

1. Carefully fill it out with your old and new address information
2. Include the desired start date for mail forwarding
3. Specify move type (individual, family, business) and duration (temporary/permanent)
4. Ensure all information is accurate and legible – use block letters
5. Double-check ZIP codes and apartment numbers

Cost

There is no fee for obtaining or submitting PS Form 3575 by mail. However:

• If mailing directly: You would need to affix a first-class postage stamp to the envelope
• Giving to mail carrier: This is a completely cost-free option

Identity Verification

While submitting the form by mail doesn’t involve immediate in-person identity verification, the USPS still has security measures in place:

• Confirmation letter sent to your old address to verify the change
• Move Validation Letter similar to the online process
• Additional verification may be requested if there are security concerns

Summary of Costs Associated with Each Method

Choosing the right method for updating your address depends partly on the associated costs:

While the standard mail forwarding service is in place, you might need to consider the costs associated with extending this service or opting for premium options if your needs go beyond the standard timeframe and coverage.

Timeline: When Will Your Address Change Take Effect?

Submitting your address change is just the first step. Understanding the timeline for when the change becomes effective is crucial for managing your mail delivery expectations.

Processing Timeline

Generally, mail forwarding typically begins within 3 business days of the USPS receiving your request, regardless of whether you submitted it online, in person, or by mail. However, it’s best to allow up to 2 weeks for the change to fully take effect and for your mail to consistently arrive at your new address.

Confirmation Timeline

As part of the confirmation process, you’ll receive:

1. Move Validation Letter at your old address (within 3-5 business days of submission)
2. Customer Notification Letter at your new address (approximately 5 business days before your specified start date)
3. Welcome kit possibly included with Customer Notification Letter, containing coupons from USPS partners
4. Confirmation code included in Customer Notification Letter

Standard Forwarding Duration

First-Class Mail and packages: 12 months forwarding period

Periodicals (magazines and newsletters): Typically 60 days forwarding period

USPS Marketing Mail (bulk mail/advertising): Generally, not forwarded at all

Media Mail: Will be forwarded, but you may need to pay the cost for shipping from your old post office to your new address

After Forwarding Ends

Grace period: For 6 months following the expiration of the 12-month forwarding period for a permanent COA, the USPS will return any First-Class Mail it receives for that address back to the sender with a label providing your new address.

This serves as a final, direct notification for senders to update their records.

Consider Additional USPS Services for Your Move

In addition to the standard change of address and mail forwarding, the USPS offers other services that can be helpful during a move.

Extended Mail Forwarding

If you anticipate needing mail forwarding beyond the standard 12-month period, the USPS offers Extended Mail Forwarding service for an additional fee.

Options and costs:

• 6-month extension: $24.50
• 12-month extension: $36.50
• 18-month extension: $48.50
• Maximum total forwarding: 30 months (12 months standard + 18 months extended)

How to add: You can add Extended Mail Forwarding when you first submit your change of address request, edit it later through managemymove.usps.com, or add it in person at a Post Office. The USPS also sends an email reminder at the 11-month mark offering the extension option.

Important note: The fee for Extended Mail Forwarding is non-refundable.

Premium Forwarding Service Residential®

For those who want a more comprehensive mail forwarding solution, especially during temporary relocations, Premium Forwarding Service Residential® is a paid option.

How it works: This service forwards all your mail, including First-Class Mail, magazines, and local mailers, in a single weekly Priority Mail package.

Duration: Minimum of 2 weeks up to 1 year

Cost: Fixed weekly price plus an enrollment fee

Best for: Individuals away from their primary residence for extended periods who want to receive all their mail regularly in organized weekly shipments.

Premium Forwarding Service Commercial®

Businesses that are temporarily relocating can utilize Premium Forwarding Service Commercial®.

Purpose: Allows businesses with an active PO Box or street address to have all their mail temporarily forwarded to their domestic business address.

Delivery options:

• Daily shipments via Priority Mail Express® or Priority Mail®
• Weekly shipments via Priority Mail Express® or Priority Mail®
• Monthly shipments via Priority Mail Express® or Priority Mail®

Cost: Enrollment fee plus reshipment charges based on frequency and service level selected.

USPS Hold Mail® Service

If you’ll be away from your residence for a short period, typically between 3 and 30 days, you can request the USPS to hold your mail at your local post office until you return.

Benefits:

• Free service – no charge
• Security – prevents mail from accumulating in your mailbox while you’re gone
• Convenience – all mail delivered in a bundle when you return or available for pickup

How to request: Schedule this service online through your USPS.com account or through your local post office.

Delivery options upon return:

• Mail carrier delivers all accumulated mail in a single bundle on your specified return date
• You can pick up held mail at the Post Office

Mail Forwarding: What Gets Forwarded and What Doesn’t

A fundamental misunderstanding of the COA service is the assumption that all mail is forwarded automatically and indefinitely.

Mail Classes Explained: Detailed Breakdown

The USPS treats different classes of mail differently under a standard COA order:

Common Exclusions and Special Cases

Beyond the general rules for mail classes, specific exclusions and situations affect mail delivery:

The USPS Marketing Mail® Exception: Standard, unsolicited advertising mail, catalogs, and flyers are generally not forwarded. They are disposed of by the USPS. This is one of the most common reasons users believe their mail forwarding is not working correctly.

Accountable Mail: Some mail requiring signature or special handling may not be eligible for forwarding under all services.

“Undeliverable as Addressed” (UAA): If a piece of mail has an incorrect, incomplete, or illegible address, it may be returned to the sender as UAA, even if a valid COA is on file. The COA service cannot correct fundamental addressing errors on the mailpiece itself.

Packages requiring special services: Items requiring adult signature, restricted delivery, or other special services may have different forwarding rules.

Handling Special Circumstances

U.S. Military and Diplomatic Moves

Service members have a specific process for managing mail during relocations.

Primary process: Military personnel should first work through their command’s administrative channels. Relocation information entered into the Automated Military Postal System (AMPS) is typically shared automatically with the USPS.

Direct USPS filing: If a service member still needs to file a COA directly:

• Can file online or in person like civilians
• For online requests from military addresses: Email address provided must end in .gov, .mil, or .edu for verification purposes
• Overseas limitation: In-person identity verification for online requests can only be completed at Post Office locations within the 50 states and Puerto Rico. Personnel stationed overseas cannot complete this step and may be unable to file a COA online

Special considerations:

• APO/FPO addresses have unique forwarding rules
• Military mail forwarding may interact with command mail distribution systems
• Extended deployments may require special arrangements

Managing Mail for a Deceased Individual

This is a sensitive process with strict legal requirements.

Mandatory in-person filing: The process of changing an address or managing mail for a deceased person must be done in person at a Post Office location.

Required documentation: The individual making the request must provide official documentation proving they are the court-appointed executor or administrator of the estate.

Critical clarification: A death certificate alone is not sufficient to authorize the management of the deceased’s mail. Proper legal authorization through probate court is required.

Types of acceptable legal documentation:

• Letters testamentary
• Letters of administration
• Court orders appointing executor/administrator
• Other probate court documents establishing legal authority

Important considerations:

• Different states have different probate processes
• Some accounts (like Social Security) have their own notification procedures
• Banking and financial institutions require separate notification
• Consider consulting with estate attorney for complex situations

Moving After a Natural Disaster

In times of crisis, mail forwarding becomes a vital lifeline for displaced individuals and families.

Critical importance: The USPS COA service becomes essential for disaster victims to continue receiving:

• FEMA correspondence and benefits information
• Insurance claim communications
• Financial institution statements and correspondence
• Government assistance program information
• Medical prescription and healthcare communications

Service availability: Both temporary and permanent COA options are available to those affected by disasters, providing flexibility for different displacement situations:

• Temporary COA: For those expecting to return to their original address
• Permanent COA: For those whose homes are uninhabitable or who decide to relocate permanently

Special disaster considerations:

• USPS may provide expedited processing during declared disasters
• Emergency contact information becomes crucial when normal communication channels are disrupted
• Coordination with disaster relief organizations may be necessary
• Consider premium forwarding services for comprehensive mail management during extended displacement

A Helpful Checklist: Who Else You Should Notify

Filing a Change of Address with the USPS is an important first step, but it should be viewed as a temporary safety net, not a permanent solution. The service reroutes mail for a limited time; it does not update your address on file with the various government agencies, financial institutions, and businesses that send you mail.

To ensure uninterrupted communication and service after the 12-month forwarding period ends, it is imperative to contact each organization directly and provide them with your new address. Failing to do so can lead to missed bills, lost documents, potential credit issues, and security risks.

Government Agencies

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

• How to update: File Form 8822, Change of Address
• Why critical: Ensure you receive tax refunds, official correspondence, and avoid delays in tax processing
• Timeline: Update as soon as possible, especially before tax season

Social Security Administration (SSA)

• How to update: Online via “my Social Security” account, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at local SSA office
• Who needs to update: Anyone receiving Social Security or Medicare benefits
• Why critical: Affects benefit payments and Medicare communications

Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

• How to update: Varies by state – online, in person, or by mail
• What to update: Driver’s license, vehicle registration, and title
• Timeline: Most states have strict deadlines (often 10-30 days after moving)
• Consequences: Late fees, violations, insurance issues

Voter Registration

• How to update: Contact state or local election office
• Why separate: Must be done separately from USPS address change
• Timeline: Check your state’s deadline before elections
• Online options: Many states now allow online voter registration updates

Veterans Affairs (VA)

• How to update: Online through VA.gov, by phone, or at local VA office
• Who needs to update: Anyone receiving VA benefits or healthcare
• Why critical: Affects benefit payments and healthcare access

Other federal agencies as applicable:

• Federal student loan servicers
• Immigration services (USCIS)
• Selective Service System
• Federal benefits programs

Financial Services

Banks and Credit Unions

• How to update: Online banking, mobile app, phone, or in person
• What to update: Checking, savings, loan accounts, safe deposit boxes
• Why critical: Ensures you receive statements, new cards, security notifications
• Timeline: Update immediately to prevent fraud concerns

Credit Card Companies

• How to update: Online account management, phone, or customer service
• Why critical: Prevents fraud alerts, ensures you receive new cards and statements
• Security benefit: Prevents mail from containing financial information being sent to old address

Loan Providers

• Student loans: Contact loan servicer directly
• Auto loans: Contact lender or financing company
• Mortgages: Contact loan servicer (may be different from original lender)
• Personal loans: Contact lender directly
• Why critical: Ensures you receive payment notices and avoid late fees

Investment and Retirement Accounts

• 401(k) accounts: Contact plan administrator or HR department
• IRA accounts: Contact financial institution directly
• Brokerage accounts: Online or contact customer service
• Why critical: Ensures you receive tax documents, statements, and important notices

Financial Advisors and Accountants

• Contact directly: Phone or email with new address information
• Update timing: Before tax season or any major financial transactions

Insurance Providers

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• How to update: Contact insurance company or update through employer HR
• Why critical: Moving to new state may affect coverage areas and provider networks
• Timing: Update before next appointment to avoid coverage issues

Auto Insurance

• How to update: Contact agent or insurance company directly
• Why critical: Location affects premiums; rates may change based on new address
• Legal requirement: Required by law in most states
• Timeline: Update immediately to avoid coverage gaps

Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance

• Old residence: Cancel or transfer existing policy appropriately
• New residence: Establish coverage before moving day
• Why critical: Ensures property protection and meets mortgage requirements

Life Insurance

• How to update: Contact insurance company or agent
• Why critical: Keeps policy active and beneficiary information current
• Documentation: Update beneficiary addresses if needed

Utilities and Household Services

Electricity and Gas

• Old address: Schedule disconnection for day after you move
• New address: Schedule connection for moving day or before
• Why critical: Avoid billing issues and ensure power/heat on moving day
• Deposits: May be required at new address

Water, Sewer, and Trash/Recycling

• Municipal services: Contact city or county offices
• Private services: Contact service providers directly
• Timeline: Schedule disconnection and connection around moving dates

Internet, Cable, and Phone

• Service transfer: Some providers can transfer existing service
• New installation: May require appointment and equipment setup
• Timeline: Schedule well in advance, especially during busy moving seasons
• Bundle considerations: Moving may be opportunity to reevaluate service packages

Home Security and Alarm Systems

• Update service: Contact alarm company with new address
• Equipment: May need to transfer or install new equipment
• Monitoring: Update contact information and emergency contacts

Employment and Professional

Employer

• Update with HR department: New address needed for:
  • Payroll and direct deposit
  • Tax forms (W-2, 1099)
  • Benefits administration
  • Emergency contact information
• Timeline: Update immediately to avoid delays in important documents

Professional Licensing Boards

• Who needs to update: Anyone holding state-regulated professional licenses
• Examples: Doctors, lawyers, real estate agents, contractors, teachers
• Why critical: License validity may be tied to address of record
• Timeline: Check specific board requirements for update deadlines

Health and Wellness

Doctors, Dentists, and Specialists

• Update for: Billing address, emergency contact information
• Medical records: May need transfer to new providers if moving far
• Insurance: Ensure new address is updated with insurance first
• Prescriptions: May need to transfer to new pharmacy

Veterinarian

• Update pet records: Address and contact information
• Microchip information: Update registry with new contact details
• Transfer records: If moving to new area, get copies of vaccination and medical records

Pharmacy

• Transfer prescriptions: To location convenient to new address
• Insurance: Ensure prescription coverage transfers properly
• Auto-refills: Update delivery address for mail-order prescriptions

Subscriptions and Online Services

Magazines and Newspapers

• Why contact publishers directly: Forwarding for periodicals only lasts 60 days
• How to update: Contact customer service or update online account
• Digital subscriptions: Update billing and contact information

Subscription Boxes

• Examples: Meal kits, grooming products, pet supplies, books
• Update shipping address: In online account or contact customer service
• Delivery timing: Coordinate with moving schedule

Online Shopping Sites and Retailers

• Update default shipping addresses: Amazon, eBay, and other frequently used sites
• Gift registries: Update wedding, baby, or other registries
• Auto-delivery services: Update address for recurring orders
• Why critical: Prevent packages from being delivered to old address

Streaming and Digital Services

• Update billing address: Credit card billing address for services
• Location-based features: May affect content availability or local features
• Tax calculations: Address affects sales tax on digital purchases

Additional Important Considerations

Children’s Records

• Schools: If children are changing schools, ensure records are transferred
• Childcare providers: Update contact and pickup information
• Extracurricular activities: Sports teams, music lessons, tutoring

Religious and Community Organizations

• Places of worship: Update membership and contribution records
• Community groups: Volunteer organizations, social clubs
• Professional associations: Update member directory information

Legal and Financial Planning

• Will and estate planning documents: Update with attorney
• Power of attorney documents: May need updating for new address
• Legal proceedings: Notify courts if involved in any ongoing cases

Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting

This section addresses common problems, serving as a quick-reference tool to resolve user issues.

Service and Processing Issues

Q: It’s been over two weeks and my mail isn’t being forwarded. What should I do?

A: First, verify the details of your request online at managemymove.usps.com using your confirmation code and new ZIP Code. Check that:

• All address information is correct
• Start date has passed
• Move type is appropriate for your situation

If all information is correct, contact USPS directly:

• Phone: 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777)
• Online: Submit inquiry through official USPS website contact form
• In person: Visit your local post office with confirmation code

Q: I lost my confirmation code. How can I manage my move?

A: The confirmation code is required for all online modifications to your COA request. Without it:

• You cannot manage your move online
• You must visit a Post Office retail window for assistance from a clerk
• Bring photo ID and be prepared to verify your identity and address information
• Consider this for future: Save confirmation codes in a secure, accessible location

Q: My forwarding is about to expire. How do I extend it?

A: You have several options:

• Extended Mail Forwarding: Add 6, 12, or 18 months for additional fees
• New COA request: File a new change of address if moving again
• Online management: Use managemymove.usps.com with your confirmation code
• Post office: Visit in person to discuss extension options

Mail Handling Issues

Q: I’m receiving mail for the previous resident. What is the proper way to handle it?

A: Do not open or discard the mail. Instead:

• Write “Not at this address” clearly on the outside of the envelope
• Place it back in an outgoing mailbox or hand it to your mail carrier
• This allows USPS to handle its return or forwarding appropriately
• Never throw away mail addressed to someone else, as this can be considered mail theft

Q: Can I refuse a piece of mail addressed to me?

A: Yes, for most types of mail:

• Condition: Envelope must not be opened
• Process: Write “Refused” clearly on the front of the mail piece
• Return: Place in outgoing mail or give to mail carrier
• Result: USPS will return it to the sender
• Exceptions: Some accountable mail or packages may have different refusal procedures

Q: Some of my mail isn’t being forwarded. Why?

A: Several types of mail are not forwarded:

• USPS Marketing Mail (advertisements, flyers) – typically discarded
• Mail with incorrect addresses – returned as “Undeliverable as Addressed”
• Certain accountable mail – may require special handling
• Mail after forwarding period expires – Check if your 12-month period has ended

Account and Address Management

Q: Does the USPS change of address process update my voter registration?

A: No, these are completely separate processes. The official COA service does not automatically update voter registration. While the online process may redirect you to partner sites offering voter registration tools, using these tools is optional and separate from your mail forwarding. You must update voter registration directly with your state or local election office to ensure you can vote at your new address.

Q: I need to change my forwarding start date. How do I do this?

A: You can modify your start date:

• Online: Use managemymove.usps.com with your confirmation code and new ZIP code
• Limitations: Changes may not be possible if start date is very close or has already passed
• In person: Visit post office if online changes aren’t available
• Timeline: Make changes as early as possible for best results

Q: Can I forward mail to a PO Box?

A: Yes, but with limitations:

• PO Box as new address: Generally acceptable for most mail forwarding
• Packages: Some packages may not be deliverable to PO Box depending on size and service
• Verification: Address verification process is the same
• Consider: Premium Forwarding Service if you need comprehensive package handling

Technical and Payment Issues

Q: The online system won’t accept my credit card. What should I do?

A: Common issues and solutions:

• Billing address mismatch: Card billing address must match either old or new address exactly
• Expired card: Check expiration date
• Card restrictions: Some cards may block online government payments
• Alternative: File in person at post office for free
• Contact bank: Ensure no blocks on your card for USPS transactions

Q: I was charged more than $1.25 online. What happened?

A: If charged more than $1.25:

• Check bank statement carefully – may show pending charges that will settle to $1.25
• Third-party site warning: You may have used an unofficial site that charges excessive fees
• Dispute: Contact your credit card company if overcharged by fraudulent site
• Prevention: Always use official USPS websites

Special Circumstances

Q: I’m moving internationally. What are my options?

A: International moves have special requirements:

• Must file in person at post office before leaving the United States
• Cannot file online for international destinations
• Limited forwarding: Not all mail types can be forwarded internationally
• Alternative services: Consider international mail forwarding companies for comprehensive service
• Timeline: Complete before departure from U.S.

Q: I’m in the military. Are there special procedures?

A: Military personnel have additional options:

• Primary method: Work through command administrative channels first
• AMPS system: Automated Military Postal System may handle forwarding automatically
• Direct filing: Can still file COA directly if needed
• Email restrictions: Online filing from military addresses requires .gov, .mil, or .edu email
• Overseas limitation: May not be able to complete online identity verification from overseas locations

Ensuring Your Mail Follows You

Updating your address with the USPS is a fundamental step in the moving process, and understanding the available methods, associated costs, and timelines will help ensure a seamless transition.

Whether you choose the convenience of the online portal, the personal touch of visiting your local post office, or the traditional method of using a mail-in form, the USPS provides options to suit your needs and circumstances.

Key Takeaways for Success

Always use official USPS resources to avoid unnecessary fees and potential scams. The official websites are usps.com/move and moversguide.usps.com, and the identity verification fee is only $1.25 for online submission.

Submit your request at least two weeks before your move to allow adequate processing time. While forwarding may begin within 3 business days, allowing extra time ensures smooth operation during your transition.

Double-check all information you provide to ensure accuracy and avoid delays. Address errors are one of the most common causes of forwarding problems.

Remember that USPS forwarding is temporary protection – you must notify other important entities of your new address separately. Use the comprehensive checklist provided to systematically update your address with banks, employers, government agencies, and service providers.

Understand what mail gets forwarded and what doesn’t. USPS Marketing Mail typically isn’t forwarded, periodicals are only forwarded for 60 days, and some specialty mail has unique rules.

Keep your confirmation code safe – you’ll need it to modify your request or add services like Extended Mail Forwarding.

Planning Your Move Successfully

Moving involves coordinating many moving parts, and mail forwarding is just one element of a successful relocation. By taking these steps seriously and planning systematically, you can ensure that your mail continues to follow you to your new address while you build your new life in your new location.

The USPS change of address service has helped millions of Americans maintain continuity during major life transitions. With proper understanding and execution of the process, combined with comprehensive address updates across all your important relationships and accounts, you can move forward confidently knowing that this critical aspect of your relocation is handled professionally and completely.

Remember: successful mail forwarding during a move isn’t just about filing the right form – it’s about understanding the system, planning ahead, and taking comprehensive action to ensure nothing falls through the cracks during this important transition in your life.

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.