USPS Change of Address: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Moving to a new home or office is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with plenty of logistical tasks. One of the most crucial steps is updating your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS). This simple process ensures that your mail is forwarded to your new location, helping you avoid missed bills, packages, and important correspondence.

The USPS Change of Address service is a convenient solution for individuals, families, and businesses looking to redirect their mail during a move. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, highlight costs, and provide tips to make it as seamless as possible.

Whether you’re moving temporarily or permanently, this guide has everything you need to know about changing your address with USPS in 2024. Let’s get started!

What Is the USPS Change of Address Service?

The USPS Change of Address service is a program offered by the United States Postal Service that allows you to forward your mail to a new address when you move. It’s an essential tool for ensuring that important letters, packages, and notifications reach you at your new location, whether you’re relocating temporarily or permanently.

This service is designed for:

Individuals: Moving alone and need to update their personal mail delivery.
Families: Ensuring all household members receive their mail at the new address.
Businesses: Redirecting correspondence and packages during office relocations.

Depending on your situation, USPS offers two types of address changes:

Temporary Address Change

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

Seasonal moves (e.g., snowbirds heading to warmer climates).
Extended vacations or business travel.
Students moving temporarily for school or internships.

Mail forwarding for temporary changes lasts up to 6 months, with the option to extend for an additional 6 months.

Permanent Address Change

A permanent address change is intended for those who are relocating permanently. USPS updates its records to ensure that your mail is forwarded to your new address indefinitely. This option is commonly used for:

Moving to a new home or apartment.
Relocating for work or family reasons.
Consolidating multiple addresses into one primary location.

With the USPS Change of Address service, you can be confident that your mail will follow you, no matter where life takes you.

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

Changing your address with USPS is straightforward, and you have several methods to choose from based on your convenience. Below is a detailed breakdown of each option:

1. Online Submission

The most convenient way to update your address is through the USPS online portal. Here’s how to do it:

Visit the USPS MoversGuide website.
Click on “Get Started” and fill out your personal information, including your old and new addresses.
Pay the $1.10 identity verification fee using a debit or credit card. This fee ensures that your request is legitimate and prevents fraud.
Submit your request and check your email for a confirmation message containing your unique Confirmation Code.

Processing Time: Mail forwarding typically begins within 7–10 business days after submission.

2. In-Person at a Post Office

If you prefer a hands-on approach, you can visit your local post office to complete the process. Follow these steps:

Visit your nearest USPS location and request a PS Form 3575 (Change of Address Form).
Fill out the form with your personal details, including your old and new addresses.
Submit the completed form to a postal worker. This method does not require any fees.

Processing Time: Similar to the online method, forwarding typically starts within 7–10 business days.

3. By Phone

You can also change your address by calling USPS Customer Service. Here’s what to do:

Call USPS at 1-800-275-8777.
Provide your old and new addresses, along with other personal details.
Pay the $1.10 identity verification fee over the phone using a debit or credit card.

Processing Time: Forwarding begins within the standard 7–10 business days.

4. By Mail

If you prefer the traditional route, you can submit your address change request by mail. Follow these steps:

Request a PS Form 3575 from USPS or download it from the USPS website.
Fill out the form with accurate details.
Mail the completed form to the address listed on the form.

Processing Time: This method may take longer, as it involves manual processing and postal delivery times.

Cost of Changing Your Address with USPS

USPS offers multiple options for changing your address, and the cost varies depending on the method you choose. Here’s a breakdown:

Online and Phone Submissions

If you choose to update your address online or by phone, USPS charges a small fee of $1.10 for identity verification. This fee is mandatory to ensure the security of your request and to prevent fraudulent changes.

In-Person and Mail Submissions

For in-person and mail-in methods, there is no fee. These options are ideal if you want to avoid the $1.10 charge or if you don’t have access to a credit or debit card.

Why Does USPS Charge for Online and Phone Submissions?

The $1.10 fee covers the cost of verifying your identity and ensuring that your address change request is legitimate. This helps protect your personal information and prevents unauthorized address changes.

When Will the Fee Be Charged?

The fee is charged immediately when you submit your request online or by phone. Be sure to use a valid debit or credit card to complete the transaction.

Temporary vs. Permanent Address Changes

When submitting a change of address request with USPS, you’ll need to decide whether it’s temporary or permanent. Each option is designed for specific needs, so understanding the differences is key to making the right choice.

Temporary Address Change

A temporary address change is best suited for short-term relocations. It ensures your mail is forwarded to your new location while keeping your original address intact in USPS’s records. Common situations include:

Traveling for work or school.
Seasonal moves, such as spending winters in warmer climates.
Extended vacations or temporary housing arrangements.

Duration: Temporary mail forwarding is available for up to 6 months, with the option to extend it for an additional 6 months. After that, your mail forwarding will expire unless you update your request.

Permanent Address Change

A permanent address change is intended for long-term relocations. USPS updates its records to reflect your new address, ensuring that all mail addressed to your old location is forwarded indefinitely. This option is commonly used for:

Moving to a new home or apartment.
Relocating for work or family reasons.
Consolidating addresses after a significant life change (e.g., marriage or downsizing).

Duration: With a permanent change, mail forwarding begins immediately and lasts for up to 12 months for most mail types. Some services, like magazines and periodicals, are forwarded for a shorter period (up to 60 days).

Which Option Should You Choose?

Consider the length of your move when deciding between temporary and permanent changes. If you’re unsure, opt for a temporary change and update to permanent later if necessary.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

While the USPS Change of Address service is straightforward, some common issues can arise during the process. Here’s how to identify and avoid them:

1. Entering Incorrect Information

One of the most frequent problems is submitting incorrect details, such as misspelled names or addresses. This can delay mail forwarding or result in undelivered mail.

How to Avoid: Double-check all fields before submitting your request, especially when filling out forms online or by mail. Verify your new address with official documents to ensure accuracy.

2. Submitting the Request Too Late

If you wait until the last minute to submit your address change, you risk a gap in mail delivery. USPS requires a few days to process your request and begin forwarding mail.

How to Avoid: Submit your change of address request at least 2 weeks before your move to allow ample processing time.

3. Missing the Confirmation Code

After submitting your request, USPS sends a confirmation code via email or mail. Losing this code can make it difficult to edit or cancel your request later.

How to Avoid: Save your confirmation code in a secure location or take a screenshot of the email for easy reference.

4. Delayed or Missing Mail

Occasionally, users experience delays or gaps in mail forwarding. This can happen due to processing backlogs or incomplete requests.

How to Avoid: Monitor your mail delivery during the first few weeks after your move. If you notice delays, contact USPS Customer Service at 1-800-275-8777 for assistance.

5. Forgetting to Notify Key Organizations

USPS forwarding only redirects mail sent to your old address. If you fail to update your address with banks, utilities, and other services, important documents may still go to your previous location.

How to Avoid: Create a checklist of all organizations and services that need your new address. Notify them as soon as possible to ensure uninterrupted service.

Tips for Managing Your Address Change

Changing your address with USPS is only part of the process. To ensure a smooth transition, follow these tips for managing your address change effectively:

1. Notify Key Organizations

While USPS forwards your mail, it’s important to update your address directly with key organizations to avoid missed correspondence. Start with these:

Banks and Credit Card Companies: Update your billing and mailing addresses to prevent delays in receiving statements or new cards.
Insurance Providers: Notify health, auto, and home insurance companies to ensure uninterrupted coverage.
Government Agencies: Update your address with the DMV for your driver’s license and vehicle registration, as well as the IRS for tax purposes.
Subscriptions and Memberships: Redirect magazines, newspapers, and other subscriptions to your new address.

2. Use an Address Change Checklist

Staying organized is key to a successful move. Create a checklist to track which organizations and services you’ve notified about your new address. This will help you avoid missing any updates.

3. Plan Ahead

Submit your USPS Change of Address request at least 2 weeks before your move. This ensures mail forwarding begins on time and minimizes disruptions in delivery.

4. Monitor Your Mail

During the first month after your move, pay close attention to your mail delivery. If you notice missing or delayed mail, contact USPS Customer Service to resolve the issue promptly.

5. Notify Friends and Family

Don’t forget to share your new address with close friends and family. A simple group email or text message can keep everyone updated.

FAQs About USPS Change of Address

Below are answers to some of the most common questions about the USPS Change of Address process:

1. How long does mail forwarding take to begin?

Mail forwarding typically starts within 7–10 business days after USPS processes your request. For best results, submit your address change at least 2 weeks before your move.

2. Can I change my address for free?

Yes, you can change your address for free by submitting the PS Form 3575 in person at a post office or by mailing the form. The $1.10 fee only applies to online and phone submissions.

3. What types of mail does USPS forward?

USPS forwards first-class mail, packages, and priority mail to your new address. However, standard mail, such as advertisements and circulars, is usually not forwarded.

4. Can I use USPS Change of Address for international moves?

USPS offers limited forwarding services for international moves. Contact USPS Customer Service for specific details and additional options if you’re relocating abroad.

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

You can edit or cancel your request using the Confirmation Code provided in your email or mail confirmation. Visit the USPS Change of Address page and follow the instructions.

6. What happens if I don’t change my address?

Failing to update your address can result in missed mail, including bills, packages, and important documents. Your mail may be returned to the sender if USPS cannot deliver it.

7. How long does USPS forward my mail?

For permanent address changes, USPS forwards mail for up to 12 months for first-class mail and packages. Periodicals, such as magazines, are forwarded for up to 60 days.

8. Can I change the address for someone else?

Yes, you can submit an address change on behalf of a family member or household if you have their permission. For businesses, you must be authorized to act on their behalf.

Conclusion

Updating your address with USPS is an essential step when moving, whether it’s temporary or permanent. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your mail is forwarded seamlessly to your new address, preventing missed bills, packages, and important correspondence.

Remember to choose the method that works best for you—online, in-person, by phone, or by mail—and plan ahead to avoid delays. Additionally, take the time to notify key organizations and monitor your mail delivery to ensure a smooth transition.

Take Action Today

Don’t wait until the last minute! Start your USPS Change of Address process today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your mail will follow you wherever you go. Click here to begin your online address change now.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to make your moving process as easy as possible!