Moving into a new home is exciting, but it also comes with a long to-do list. One of the most important yet often overlooked tasks is updating your address. This change of address checklist walks you through every organization and service you’ll need to notify so your move goes smoothly and you don’t miss any important mail or payments.
Quick Answer: When moving, start with the USPS, DMV, and your utility providers. Then update your address with your bank, employer, insurance companies, and online accounts to avoid missed mail or service interruptions.
Updating your address may not seem urgent, but delaying it can create unnecessary complications. Missing bills or renewal notices could affect your credit, and outdated information can cause lapses in insurance coverage or tax records.
Keeping your address current also protects your identity by preventing sensitive mail, such as financial statements or medical documents, from being delivered to your old address. It’s one of the simplest ways to secure your personal information during a move.
It’s easy to overlook certain organizations during a move. Here’s a breakdown of the key places to update first, organized by category.
Government offices should be your first priority. These organizations handle essential mail and legal records tied directly to your identity.
Start by filing an official change of address with the USPS. This can be done online at moversguide.usps.com for a $1.10 verification fee. The service forwards your mail from your old address to your new one for up to a year. Be cautious of unofficial websites that charge more.
If you prefer, you can also complete this process at any local post office.
Next, update your driver’s license and vehicle registration. In California, you’re legally required to make this change within 10 days of your move. You can usually complete the update online. Having your correct address ensures you receive renewal notices and keeps your voter registration current.
Once your official identification and mail are updated, move on to your financial accounts. Keeping your financial institutions informed helps protect your credit and ensures accurate billing.
Notify your bank or credit union of your new address so your statements, replacement cards, and important documents are delivered correctly. Log in to your online banking portal to make this update quickly. If you use multiple banks or investment platforms, confirm that each account reflects your new address.
Credit card companies, mortgage lenders, and auto loan providers all rely on accurate mailing addresses for billing and legal notices. A delay in updating your information could result in missed payments or fees. Most lenders allow you to update your address directly through your account dashboard or by calling customer service.
Utilities are essential for comfort and safety in your new home. Taking time to coordinate these changes before moving ensures a smooth transition.
Contact your providers at least a week before your move to schedule service transfers or disconnections. This prevents double-billing or being left without utilities on move-in day. In some cases, you can transfer your account directly to your new address through an online form.
Set up installation or service transfer appointments early to avoid downtime. Whether you’re keeping the same provider or switching to a new one, scheduling in advance helps you avoid lapses in service when you arrive.
Your insurance policies are tied to your address for risk assessment, billing, and coverage eligibility. Updating them ensures your protection remains in place.
Contact your insurance providers to update your mailing and billing information. If your move takes you out of your current provider’s network, you may need to select new coverage options. Keeping your records up to date ensures claims are processed without delay.
Your new address can affect your insurance premiums, especially for auto policies. Notify your insurer as soon as possible to avoid coverage gaps and to ensure your policy reflects your new location and vehicle parking situation.
Your employer and the companies you subscribe to also rely on accurate address information. Updating these early helps you stay organized and avoid missing important deliveries or tax documents.
Your HR and payroll departments need your current address for tax forms, benefits, and other correspondence. Confirm your new information before your next pay cycle to avoid errors on W-2s or insurance paperwork.
From streaming services to pet food subscriptions, many companies use your address for billing or delivery. Review your active subscriptions and update them all at once—it’s easier than dealing with lost shipments or account issues later.
Yes. Staying organized is easier when you can see your progress at a glance. Below, you’ll find a printable address change checklist you can download and use while preparing for your move. Keep it nearby as you update each contact and check items off as you go.
How soon before moving should I change my address?
File your USPS change of address about one to two weeks before moving. This ensures your mail forwarding starts as soon as you arrive.
What is the easiest way to change your address with USPS?
The official USPS website is the fastest, most secure option. Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra or request unnecessary personal information.
Who should I notify first when moving?
Start with USPS, then your DMV, bank, and utility providers. These are the most time-sensitive updates.
How can I avoid missing mail after I move?
Set up mail forwarding and confirm your address directly with key institutions. Keep a checklist handy to track who you’ve updated.
Can I change my address online in California?
Yes. You can update your address with the California DMV and most major organizations online in just a few minutes.
Moving can be stressful, but with the right plan, it doesn’t have to be.
At Hignell, we help residents across Northern California—including Chico, Redding, and nearby communities—stay organized before, during, and after a move. Our goal is to make every step simple and stress-free so you can settle in faster and focus on enjoying your new home.
Ready to find your next place? Browse available listings today.