Address change mail forwarding

The joys of moving! Here's a comprehensive guide to address change mail forwarding:

Why Mail Forwarding?

When you move to a new address, you may not be able to receive mail at your old address anymore. Mail forwarding helps ensure that important documents, bills, and packages are redirected to your new address. This is especially important for:

  1. Bills and statements: You don't want to miss important payments or deadlines.
  2. Packages and deliveries: You don't want to miss packages or have them returned to the sender.
  3. Important documents: You don't want to miss important documents, such as tax forms or legal notices.

How to Set Up Mail Forwarding

  1. USPS (United States Postal Service): The USPS offers a mail forwarding service called "Forwarding Service" or "Change of Address." You can set it up online or by mail.
    • Online: Go to the USPS website, fill out the form, and pay the fee (currently $1.05 per year).
    • By mail: Fill out Form 3575, "Change of Address," and mail it to the USPS.
  2. Private Mail Forwarding Services: There are also private companies that offer mail forwarding services, such as EarthClassMail, Mailbox Forwarding, or The UPS Store. These services often have additional fees and features.

What to Expect

  1. Forwarding Period: Mail forwarding typically lasts for a set period, usually 6-12 months.
  2. Fees: The USPS charges a fee for mail forwarding, which varies depending on the service and duration.
  3. Mail Processing: The USPS will forward your mail to your new address, but it may take some time to process and deliver it.
  4. Package Handling: If you receive packages, the USPS will hold them at the post office for pickup or delivery to your new address.

Tips and Reminders

  1. Notify Important Parties: Inform your bank, credit card company, loan providers, and other relevant parties of your address change.
  2. Update Your Address: Update your address with online services, such as Amazon, Netflix, and social media platforms.
  3. Keep Track of Your Mail: Keep track of your mail and packages to ensure they are being forwarded correctly.
  4. Monitor Your Mail: Check your mail regularly to ensure you're receiving all important documents and packages.

By setting up mail forwarding, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new address and avoid missing important mail and packages.