Change of Address Checklist for a Seamless Move

When you are transitioning to a new home there are a lot of moving pieces. While you’re focused on packing boxes, items like changing your address with the electricity company can slip through the cracks. It’s not until you reach your new home that you find yourself in the dark.

Luckily, we have a change of address checklist to help you prepare for your move. Browse through the different categories to be sure that you’ve contacted everyone you need to.

Government agencies

Since government documents may contain sensitive information, these agencies should be the first you notify about your address change.

The Post Office

Start this transition by notifying the Post Office (USPS) of your address change. Changing your address will ensure that they forward your mail to your new home for the next few months. This will give you time to change your address with the following agencies and people.

Tax agencies

The IRS will need to know your new home mailing address so they can send you tax documents. You can change it with them by filling out Form 8822.

Social Security Administration

If you are receiving any social security benefits, you’ll need to let the SSA know your new address. Change your address with their online application or by phone.

DMV

These days, most states allow you to change your address with the DMV online. It’s a legal requirement to change your address with the DMV, so be sure you make this a priority. You’ll have 30-60 days to let the DMV know of your address change. After this time period, you could be subject to fines.

Utilities

Make sure your new apartment is ready to move into by transferring utilities to your new address or finding providers who cover your new neighborhood.

Gas and electric company

You are probably already aware that you need to contact your gas and electric company and inform them of your change of address. They’ll want to know what date you are moving and your new address so that you’ll have heat and electricity when you move in.

If possible, tell them a specific time so they don’t shut off the power in your old place too soon. You don’t want to be left moving in the dark.

When moving to a different county or state, the service provider may be different. In this case, rather than change your address, you’ll need to cancel the service altogether.

Phone provider

Be sure your cell provider knows your new address so they can send your bill to the right place. You wouldn’t want to be charged a late fee for missing a payment due to this move.

Cable and internet provider

It’s important to check with your cable and internet provider to see if they service the area you are moving to. If they don’t, you’ll need to cancel and contact a provider who does. It can take time to schedule someone to come set up your internet, so be sure to plan this a few weeks before your move.

If they do service your area, notify them of your address change so the bill is sent to the right place.

Water and sewage

If you’re required to pay water in your new apartment or home, you’ll need to inform your local water department of your move. Sewage fees are usually grouped in your water bill. Change your address with the water department before you move to be sure you have a refreshing shower waiting for you after a day of moving.

Garbage and recycling company

If you are responsible for the garbage and recycling in your home, be sure to notify your company of your move. You’ll need these services to take care of all the moving boxes, so be sure you’ve changed your address with them.

Insurance

Keep your apartment or house safe with the proper insurance. If your new space has different features, you may have to change what type of coverage you have.

Home or renters insurance

Homeowners or renters insurance only works if it’s covering the right home. Be sure to update your new address with these companies so your property is insured. If your new rental requires insurance, be sure your plan meets their specifications.

Additional insurance providers

If you have car insurance, health insurance, dental insurance or life insurance, you’ll want to change your address to be sure you’re covered in your new residence.

If you are moving locally, this shouldn’t impact your plan. If you are moving to a new state, there may be additional steps you need to take to remain covered by your provider.

People

Don’t miss out on fun holiday cards and invitations to big events! Make sure those close to you know you’ve changed your address.

Employer

Your employer will need to know your address to keep their records current. This will also ensure that you get any company notices, pay stubs and tax documents.

Friends and family

You should notify your friends and family about your move. This group will be sending you one-of-a-kind mail such as engagement announcements or birthday cards. Be sure these get to you by notifying friends and family of your move. While you should let these individuals know, do it in a safe way. Don’t post your new address on social media.

Financial institutions

Even if you have paperless billing, banks and financial institutions still send important notices through the mail.

Bank and credit card companies

Be sure your statements and bills are sent to the correct home by updating your address with your bank. You can most likely make this change in your online banking profile. If not, call your bank and inquire about how to make this change.

Loan providers

Your student loan or car loan provider may be different than your primary bank. Be sure they know your updated address so you can make your payments on time.

Memberships

Don’t send recurring purchases to the wrong place. Make sure you update subscription services and notify any other important organizations.

Subscription services

We live in an age of subscriptions. From traditional newspaper and magazine subscriptions to the modern food and beauty subscriptions, you won’t want to miss a shipment. Be sure to update your address with these services. This should be easily done online.

Clubs and organizations

If you are involved with a club or organization, be sure they know about your move. This includes retailer clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club and even school organizations that your kids are a part of.

Religious institution

If you are involved in a religious institution, inform your local branch of your updated contact information.

Printable change of address checklist

While changing your address does take some work, you’ll be saving time and money by getting it done as soon as possible. Print out this change of address checklist and mark off them off as you go.

By following this change of address checklist, you can be sure that all your letters and bills reach your new home.

The post Change of Address Checklist for a Seamless Move appeared first on Apartment Living Tips - Apartment Tips from ApartmentGuide.com.

from Apartment Living Tips – Apartment Tips from ApartmentGuide.com https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/change-of-address-checklist/