Don’t Miss a Thing: Change Your Address with USPS and Keep Your Mail Coming

If you’ve ever moved before, you know how stressful it can be. Boxes everywhere, packing up all your stuff, and trying to remember all the things you need to do. But one thing that’s easy to forget (and can cause a lot of headaches) is making sure your mail gets forwarded to your new place. That’s where the USPS address change service comes in — and it’s actually pretty easy to use.

Why You Should Change Your Address with USPS

When you move, the last thing you want is for your bills, letters from friends, or even that package you’ve been waiting for to get lost in the void. By updating your address with USPS, you ensure that all your mail — from your credit card statements to that birthday card you’re hoping to receive — follows you to your new home. It’s one less thing you have to worry about while you’re busy unpacking.

How to Change Your Address with USPS

Changing your address with USPS is quick and simple. You’ve got options, depending on how you like to do things.

1. Online (Fastest Way)

If you’re the type of person who loves doing things online, this is the easiest and fastest option. Head over to the USPS website, fill out the change of address form, and pay a small verification fee (just $1.10). The best part? You’ll get a confirmation right away, and you can pick the exact date you want your mail forwarding to begin.

2. In Person at the Post Office

Maybe you like to handle things in person? No problem! You can swing by your local post office, grab the change of address form (PS 3575), fill it out, and hand it to the post office staff. It’s totally free, and you’ll be done in no time.

3. By Mail

If online isn’t your thing and you prefer paper forms, you can request a change of address form by mail or pick it up at the post office. Fill it out and send it back — and USPS will process your request. It takes a little longer, but it works just as well.

What Happens After You Submit Your Change of Address?

Once USPS processes your change of address, they’ll start forwarding your mail. This is great because you won’t have to worry about missing anything. The service is free for the first 12 months, which covers most first-class mail and packages. After that, you’ll need to update your address again if you want to keep receiving forwarded mail.

But keep in mind — USPS only forwards mail sent through them. So, if you’re expecting packages from other companies like FedEx or UPS, you’ll need to change your address directly with them too.

How Long Does It Take to Start?

Typically, it takes about 7 to 10 business days for USPS to start forwarding your mail. So, it’s a good idea to make the change at least two weeks before your move. That way, you can rest easy knowing everything will be set up in time.

Additional USPS Services

USPS also offers some other helpful services during your move. For instance, if you’re going to be away for a while and don’t want to miss any mail, you can have USPS hold your mail for you. Or, if you need mail forwarded more frequently, they offer premium forwarding services to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Move

1. Notify Others: After updating your address with USPS, don’t forget to let important contacts like your bank, credit card companies, and subscription services know about your new address. You don’t want anything to fall through the cracks.

2. Update Your ID: Make sure your driver’s license and voter registration have your new address too.

3. Start Packing Early: We all know how chaotic moving can get. Start packing as early as you can, and be sure to label your boxes so you know exactly where everything is when you get to your new home.