How long to forward mail to new address
The length of time you should forward mail to a new address depends on several factors, including the type of mail, the frequency of mail delivery, and your personal preferences. Here are some general guidelines:
- USPS Forwarding: The United States Postal Service (USPS) recommends forwarding mail for at least 3 months to ensure that all mail is received at your new address. You can request forwarding for up to 12 months.
- Bills and Important Documents: For bills, credit card statements, and other important documents, it's recommended to forward mail for at least 6 months to ensure that you receive all necessary documents.
- Package Delivery: For packages, it's a good idea to forward mail for at least 3 months to ensure that all packages are delivered to your new address.
- Personal Correspondence: For personal correspondence, such as letters and cards, you can forward mail for a shorter period, such as 1-2 months.
- Online Subscriptions: If you have online subscriptions, such as streaming services or software, you may want to forward mail for a shorter period, such as 1-2 months, to ensure that you receive any necessary login information or updates.
Remember to also update your address with:
- Banks and credit unions
- Credit card companies
- Loan providers
- Insurance companies
- Employer and HR department (if applicable)
- Online services and subscriptions
- Voter registration and driver's license (if applicable)
It's also a good idea to set up mail forwarding with your local post office or online through the USPS website to ensure that all mail is forwarded to your new address.