How to stop mail from old owner

A common problem!

If you've inherited a property or purchased a home from an old owner, you may still receive mail addressed to them. Here are some steps to help you stop the mail:

  1. Notify the Post Office: Visit your local post office and provide them with the following information:
    • The old owner's name and address.
    • Your name and address.
    • A copy of the deed or title to the property, if possible.
    • A request to forward any remaining mail to your address.
  2. Fill out a Change of Address Form: You can download and print a Change of Address Form from the USPS website or pick one up at your local post office. Fill it out with the old owner's name and address, and your name and address. This will help the post office update their records and forward any remaining mail to you.
  3. Contact the Old Owner's Banks and Creditors: Reach out to the banks, credit card companies, and other creditors that may have sent mail to the old owner. Provide them with your name and address, and ask them to update their records to reflect the change in ownership.
  4. Contact the Old Owner's Utility Providers: Contact the utility providers (e.g., electricity, gas, water, internet) and ask them to update their records to reflect the change in ownership. This will help prevent any unnecessary bills or notifications from being sent to the old owner.
  5. Monitor Your Mail: Keep an eye on your mail for a few weeks to ensure that all mail is being forwarded correctly. If you receive any mail addressed to the old owner, contact the post office to report the issue.
  6. Consider a Mail Forwarding Service: If you're concerned about missing important mail or want to ensure that all mail is forwarded correctly, consider using a mail forwarding service. These services can forward mail to your new address and help you stay on top of any important correspondence.

Remember to also update your address with other relevant parties, such as:

By following these steps, you should be able to stop the mail from the old owner and ensure that all correspondence is directed to your new address.