Before you relocate, changing your address with the United State Postal Service (USPS) is an essential task. You want to ensure your mail continues to reach you at your new location without any issue.
A change of address may sound like a simple process, but there is the potential for costly mistakes if you don’t understand your options clearly. So, here are four things to keep in mind when changing your address:
Permanent VS Temporary Address Change
Before you change your address, it’s best to determine if you need a temporary address change or a permanent address change.
With a temporary change of address, your mail will be redirected from your old address to a new address for a short period of time, usually 15 days to 6 months. This option would be ideal if your move is short-term, like going for a vacation or traveling for a short-term job assignment.
Conversely, a permanent address change means that your address will be changed indefinitely. This option is ideal if you have no intentions of relocating again in the near future.
Get Your New Address Right
If you aren’t careful, you may end up registering an incorrect address with the United States Postal Service. Be sure to confirm with your landlord or real estate agent the accurate mailing address of your new home. Don’t forget to double check house numbers and zip codes in particular.
Who to Include in the Change of Address Form
You should include the names of everyone you are moving with. If some individuals have different surnames or some are being left behind, you should fill out a separate change of address form. This is to ensure that the USPS only forwards mail that matches the name of the recipient included in the change of address form.
When is the Right Time to Request Change of Address?
While there’s really no deadline for filling out a change of address request, it’s advisable to do so at least two weeks prior to your moving date. It’s worth noting that an address change will become effective about seven days after you submit your change of address request.
Therefore, requesting the change early ensures that your new address will be active by the time you settle into your new home. Nonetheless, some factors may affect the time it takes yourchange of address to take effect. This may include the time of the year, your geographical location, and the number of requests being processed at the time.
In Conclusion
Changing your address when you move will save you a lot of trouble in the future. Besides ensuring that you get your mail in a timely and convenient manner, it will also protect you from identity and mail theft. However, owing to the daunting and, sometimes confusing, process of moving, it’s easy to get distracted and mistakes when changing your address. We hopethis list of things to keep in mind helps.
