How to forward mail when someone has moved

The joys of moving! Forwarding mail can be a hassle, but it's an essential step to ensure that important documents and bills reach the new homeowner. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to forward mail when someone has moved:

Before the Move:

  1. Notify the Post Office: Inform the post office about the upcoming move by filling out a Change of Address form (PS Form 3575) at least 2 weeks before the move date. You can download the form from the USPS website or pick one up at your local post office.
  2. Update Your Address: Notify your friends, family, and acquaintances about the address change. You can also update your address with online services like Netflix, Amazon, and other subscription-based platforms.

After the Move:

  1. Forward Mail: Once you've settled into your new home, you can forward your mail by:
    • Using the Change of Address form (PS Form 3575) again, this time with your new address.
    • Filling out a Forward Mail form (PS Form 1093) at your local post office.
    • Online: Visit the USPS website and fill out the Change of Address form online.
  2. Choose a Forwarding Period: Decide how long you want to forward your mail. You can choose from 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, or 12 months.
  3. Pay the Fee: There's a small fee for forwarding mail, which varies depending on the length of the forwarding period. The fee is currently $1.05 for 1 month, $1.30 for 3 months, $2.60 for 6 months, and $3.90 for 12 months.
  4. Track Your Mail: Keep an eye on your mail and report any missing or undeliverable items to the post office.

Additional Tips:

  1. Update Your Address with the IRS: Notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about your address change by filing Form 8822, Change of Address.
  2. Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Companies: Update your address with your bank, credit card companies, and other financial institutions to ensure that your statements and bills reach you at your new address.
  3. Keep Important Documents Safe: Keep important documents, such as identification, insurance cards, and medical records, in a safe and secure location.

By following these steps, you'll ensure that your mail reaches you at your new address and that you can stay on top of important documents and bills.