Change of Address Checklist

Everyone you need to notify of your new address when you move, organized so nothing slips through.

Published June 21, 2026

Postal & Mail

Submit an official mail forwarding request with the postal service
Set the start date a day or two before your move
Update your address with any package lockers or P.O. box
Tell regular senders, such as relatives and clubs, your new address

Government & Legal

Update your driver's license and state ID
Change the address on your vehicle registration
Update your voter registration
Notify the tax authority of your new address
Update any benefits, pension or social security records
Some agencies require proof of your new address, so have a utility bill or lease ready

Banks & Finances

Update your address with every bank and checking account
Change the billing address on all credit and debit cards
Notify any loan, mortgage or lender accounts
Update investment, retirement and brokerage accounts
Tell payment apps and online wallets your new address

Insurance

Update or transfer your home or renters insurance
Notify your auto insurer — premiums can change by location
Update health, life and any other policies
Confirm coverage starts at the new address on move day

Work, Utilities & Services

Give your employer or HR your new address for payroll and tax forms
Set up or transfer electricity, gas and water accounts
Transfer internet, cable and phone service
Update trash and recycling service if billed separately

Subscriptions & Deliveries

Update online shopping accounts and saved addresses
Change the address on meal kits and recurring deliveries
Update streaming, magazine and box subscriptions
Notify loyalty programs and memberships

Medical & Personal

Update your doctor, dentist and any specialists
Transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy near the new home
Update your veterinarian and pet microchip registry
Notify your child's school and update records

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A change of address checklist lists everyone you need to tell when you move — the postal service, government agencies, banks and cards, insurers, your employer, utilities, subscriptions, and medical providers. Working through it stops bills, mail and benefits from going to the wrong place.

Start with a postal mail forward as a safety net, then update each account directly so the forward eventually becomes unnecessary.

Do the financial, government and insurance updates first, since those carry the biggest consequences if mail goes astray. Save subscriptions and deliveries for last.

Perfect for renters, families and anyone relocating. Print this checklist or download the PDF and check off each contact as you update it.

FAQ

When should I submit a change of address?

Submit your postal mail forward about two weeks before you move so it is active by moving day. Update banks, government records and insurance around the same time to avoid missed mail.

Does mail forwarding update my address everywhere?

No. Forwarding only redirects mail temporarily — it does not change your address with senders. You still need to update each account directly so mail eventually arrives at the new address on its own.

What is the most important address to change?

Prioritize anything tied to money or legal status: banks, credit cards, the tax authority, your driver's license, voter registration and insurance. Mistakes here can cause missed payments, fines or lost benefits.

How long should I keep mail forwarding active?

Keep it active for several months to a year as a backup while you catch any accounts you forgot. Each time forwarded mail arrives, update that sender directly so you can let the forward expire.

Is this change of address checklist printable?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF and tick off each company or agency once you have updated your address.