How to Change Your Address with USPS: Step-by-Step Guide

Moving to a new home is exciting, but it comes with plenty of to-dos—and updating your address is one of the most important! Failing to notify USPS about your move could result in missed bills, delayed packages, and lost correspondence. Luckily, the United States Postal Service (USPS) makes it easy to forward your mail to your new address.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to change your address with USPS, whether you’re moving temporarily or permanently. Let’s get started!

 

Step 1: Decide on Your Address Change Type

Before updating your address with USPS, it’s important to determine whether you need a temporary or permanent change of address. USPS offers both options to meet different needs, so understanding which one suits your situation will save you time and hassle.

Temporary Change of Address

A temporary change of address is ideal if you’re planning to return to your old address within a specific timeframe. This option is often used for:

• Seasonal moves (e.g., spending winter in a warmer state).
• Extended travel or business trips.
• Students temporarily relocating for school.

USPS can forward your mail to your new address for up to 6 months, with the option to extend it to 12 months. After that, mail forwarding will stop, and any mail sent to your old address will no longer be delivered.

Permanent Change of Address

A permanent change of address is for those who are moving permanently and want all their mail redirected to their new address indefinitely. Choose this option if:

• You’ve purchased a new home or signed a long-term lease.
• You’re relocating for work or family reasons.
• You’re consolidating multiple addresses into one.

With this option, USPS will update its records so all mail sent to your old address is forwarded to your new one. It’s a seamless way to ensure you don’t miss important correspondence.

 

Step 2: Choose the Right Method to Change Your Address

USPS provides multiple ways to update your address, so you can choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences. Below, we’ll cover each option in detail.

1. Change Your Address Online

The most convenient way to update your address is online. USPS’s official MoversGuide makes it quick and easy to submit your request from the comfort of your home.

• Cost: $1.10 for identity verification (paid via debit or credit card).
• Time: The process takes less than 10 minutes, and mail forwarding begins in 7-10 business days.
• How to Do It:
  1. Visit USPS MoversGuide.
  2. Click “Get Started” and fill in your personal information, old address, and new address.
  3. Pay the $1.10 fee using a debit or credit card.
  4. Submit your request and check your email for confirmation.

2. Change Your Address In-Person

If you prefer to handle the process in person, visit your nearest post office and fill out the PS Form 3575 (Change of Address Form). This is a great option if you’d like to avoid the $1.10 fee for online submissions.

• Cost: Free.
• Time: The process may take slightly longer, as forms are processed manually.
• How to Do It:
  1. Visit your local post office and request the PS Form 3575.
  2. Fill out the form with your personal details, old address, and new address.
  3. Submit the completed form to a postal worker.

3. Change Your Address by Phone

For those who can’t access the online portal or visit a post office, USPS also allows address changes via phone.

• Cost: $1.10 for identity verification.
• Time: The process can be completed in a single call.
• How to Do It:
  1. Call USPS Customer Service at 1-800-275-8777.
  2. Provide your personal information and old and new addresses.
  3. Pay the $1.10 fee using a debit or credit card.

4. Change Your Address by Mail

If you can’t complete the process online, in person, or by phone, USPS allows you to mail in your request. This option is less common but still available.

• Cost: Free.
• Time: This method takes the longest, as forms must be mailed and processed manually.
• How to Do It:
  1. Download and print the PS Form 3575 from the USPS website or request it by mail.
  2. Fill out the form with your personal details, old address, and new address.
  3. Mail the completed form to the address provided on the form.

 

Step 3: Follow the USPS Process

Once you’ve chosen your preferred method for changing your address, it’s time to complete the process step by step. Below, we outline what to expect after submitting your request.

1. Confirmation Notification

After completing your address change request, USPS will send a confirmation notification to both your old and new addresses. Here’s what to expect:

• If you submitted your request online, you’ll also receive an email confirmation with a unique Confirmation Code.
• If you submitted your request in-person, by phone, or by mail, a confirmation letter will arrive at your new address within 5-7 business days.

Be sure to keep your Confirmation Code handy—it’s required if you need to edit or cancel your request later.

2. Start Forwarding Mail

Mail forwarding typically begins 7-10 business days after USPS processes your request. During this time:

• All first-class mail, packages, and subscriptions addressed to your old address will be rerouted to your new one.
• Standard mail (e.g., advertisements and circulars) may not be forwarded.
• If you’re missing any mail, contact USPS Customer Service at 1-800-275-8777.

3. Notify Other Organizations

While USPS will forward your mail, you still need to notify key organizations of your new address. This ensures uninterrupted service and delivery. Update your address with:

• Bank accounts and credit cards.
• Insurance providers (health, auto, home).
• Government agencies (IRS, DMV, voter registration).
• Subscription services (e.g., magazines, meal kits).

Make a checklist to track all the services you’ve updated to avoid missing anything important.

4. Monitor Your Mail

For the first few weeks, closely monitor your mail delivery to ensure everything is arriving at your new address. If you notice delays or missing mail:

• Double-check that your address was entered correctly during the submission process.
• Use your USPS Confirmation Code to check the status of your request online.
• Contact USPS support for assistance.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About USPS Address Changes

1. How much does it cost to change my address with USPS?

Changing your address online or by phone costs $1.10 for identity verification. However, if you submit your request in person at a post office or by mail, it’s free.

2. How long does it take for mail forwarding to begin?

Mail forwarding typically starts within 7-10 business days after USPS processes your request. Be sure to plan ahead to avoid interruptions in mail delivery.

3. Can I change my address for free?

Yes, you can avoid the $1.10 fee by visiting a post office and submitting the PS Form 3575 in person or by mailing the completed form to USPS. Both methods are free.

4. What is the difference between a temporary and a permanent address change?

A temporary address change forwards your mail for up to 12 months, after which forwarding stops. A permanent address change updates your address in USPS’s system indefinitely to redirect mail to your new location.

5. What types of mail will USPS forward to my new address?

USPS forwards first-class mail, priority mail, and packages to your new address. Standard mail and advertisements are generally not forwarded unless requested separately.

6. Can I change my address if I’m moving internationally?

USPS offers limited mail forwarding for international moves. Contact USPS Customer Service or visit your local post office for more details and additional options.

7. How do I edit or cancel my change of address request?

If you need to edit or cancel your request, use the Confirmation Code provided in your confirmation email or letter. Log in to the USPS Change of Address page to make changes.

8. Will USPS forward my bills and subscriptions?

USPS will forward bills and magazines temporarily. However, you should update your address directly with your service providers to ensure uninterrupted delivery.

9. What happens if I don’t change my address with USPS?

Failing to update your address can result in missed mail, including important documents, bills, and packages, which may be returned to the sender.

10. Can I change the address for someone else?

You can change the address for a family member or household, provided you have permission. For businesses, you must be authorized to act on their behalf.

How to Change Your Address with USPS: Complete Guide

 

Frequently Asked Questions About USPS Address Changes