METCALF MOVING BLOG
Your Ultimate Address Update Checklist: Don’t Move Without It!
Moving to a new home is a significant event filled with excitement and a fair share of stress. One crucial task that should not be overlooked in the hustle and bustle of packing boxes is updating your address. This essential step ensures you get all important mail, bills, or packages and helps keep your transition as smooth as possible. Here’s a checklist to help you stay on track as you prepare for your household move.
1. Update with the Post Office
First and foremost, notify the United States Postal Service (USPS) about your move. Changing your address is as simple as visiting your neighborhood post office or using their online form. This will forward your mail to your new address for up to a year, giving you enough time to update your contacts.
2. Inform Utility Companies
Contact your utility providers, including electricity, water, gas, internet, and garbage disposal services. Notify them about your move at least two weeks before; ensure that services at your new place are up and running when you arrive and that the services at your old place are terminated on your move-out date.
3. Notify Financial Institutions
Updating your address with your bank, credit unions, and other financial institutions is vital. This includes your credit card companies, loan providers, and investment accounts. Ensuring that your billing address is current will prevent any bills from going missing and help protect against identity theft.
4. Update Insurance Providers
Contact all your health, home, auto, and life insurance providers. Not only does this ensure that you receive important documents, but your coverage may change based on your new location, such as home and auto insurance.
5. Notify Employer
Make sure to update your employer’s address. This is particularly critical for receiving essential documents like your W-2 forms at the end of the year. Additionally, update your address on any retirement or pension plans through your employer.
6. Inform Subscription Services
Don’t forget to update your address with any subscription services you use. This could include magazines, newspapers, meal delivery kits, and other regularly delivered products. You wouldn’t want to miss an issue or a meal due to an outdated address.
7. Update Online Retailers
Update your shipping address on platforms like Amazon, eBay, or other online retailers where you frequently shop. This will ensure future orders are shipped to your old address.
8. Notify Schools and Medical Providers
If you have children, notify their schools about your new address. Additionally, inform any medical professionals you see regularly, including doctors, dentists, and veterinarians. This ensures you don’t miss necessary appointments and that medical records are current.
9. Update Your Voter Registration
Before an election, it’s essential to have your address updated with your local election office. This ensures you receive timely information about voting locations and any other relevant materials. Check out USA.gov for guidance on updating your voter registration.
10. Friends and Family
Lastly, inform your friends and family about your new address. You can do this through a quick phone call, text, e-mail, or even a fun moving announcement card. Keeping loved ones in the loop ensures they can stay in touch and send holiday greetings to the right place.
Moving to Your New Address
By systematically updating your address, you can ensure a smoother, more organized transition into your new home. We can help with your household move. Contact us today for a free quote.
