What do i do with mail from previous resident

The joys of inheriting someone else's mail! Here's what you can do with mail from a previous resident:

1. Sort and prioritize: Go through the mail and separate it into categories, such as bills, junk mail, and important documents. Prioritize the most urgent items, like bills or notices that require your attention.
2. Contact the sender: If you're unsure about the status of an account or need to update your information, contact the sender (e.g., a utility company, bank, or credit card company) to clarify.
3. Forward or redirect: If you're keeping the same address, you can forward or redirect mail to your new address using the USPS's forwarding service. This way, you'll receive important mail and packages at your new address.
4. Return to sender: If the mail is addressed to the previous resident, you can return it to the sender with a note explaining the situation. This is especially important for bills or important documents that require a response.
5. Shred or recycle: If the mail is junk or contains sensitive information, consider shredding or recycling it to protect your identity and the environment.
6. Keep important documents: If you need to keep important documents, such as insurance policies, contracts, or receipts, store them in a secure location, like a fireproof safe or a locked file cabinet.
7. Notify the post office: Inform your local post office about the change in residency and ask them to update their records. This will help ensure that mail is delivered correctly to your new address.

Remember to also update your address with:

• Banks and credit unions
• Credit card companies
• Loan providers
• Insurance companies
• Utility providers (electricity, gas, water, internet, etc.)
• Subscription services (streaming, music, etc.)
• Online retailers
• Government agencies (e.g., DMV, Social Security Administration)

By taking these steps, you'll be able to manage the mail from the previous resident and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.