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The Front Porch Blog

Education on all things homeownership

Change of Address Checklist

July 28, 2018 Home Selling

Between house hunting and drop-offs at Goodwill, don’t forget to share your change of address with the necessary people and organizations. Typically, you have time to update your address within 90 days of moving, but most all utilities and government offices require that you inform them of your new residence before you hand over the keys to your last one. So, who do you notify when you move? This checklist will help you get started.

Utilities

Turning on and shutting off water and electric is best done before and after you need them, not while you’re scrambling to get ready for the first day of your new job. Your landlords may even want proof of transfer before they let you move in. As soon as you know your new address, schedule installation. Your new lease or apartment complex’s website may have provider recommendations. Here are the services to look into.

  • Electric
  • Gas
  • Water
  • Garbage
  • Phone
  • Cable
  • Internet
  • Lawn
  • Housecleaning
  • Security

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Finance

You don’t want to be stranded with no cash just to find out your credit card isn’t authenticated and your bank doesn’t have a branch in your new location. On top of that, your insurance coverage doesn’t meet your new state’s minimums. And did you remember to forward your pay stubs, tax forms, or even your deposit on your last residence? Here are a few entities to notify with your change of address:

  • Employer
  • Renter
  • Banks
  • Store credit cards
  • Air rewards programs
  • Loan companies
  • Insurance agencies (such as health, dental, life, and car)
  • Memberships (such as Sam’s Club and Costco)

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Government Public Offices

The government is one entity you don’t want to forget, especially if you receive any social security or pension benefits. Here are a few notable offices and links to their online change of address forms:

Tips to a Stress-free moving day

Personal

There are a variety of nice-to-haves that you might want to come along with you, such as subscriptions to magazines or Hello Fresh. So you might keep track of any mail you receive in the last few weeks leading up to your transition to gather ideas. If you’re buying furniture for your new place, be sure places like Wayfair and Bed, Bath, and Beyond have the correct shipping details. The same goes for your friends and family – unless you want the saddest birthday ever. The last thing you need when moving is more stress piled on. Consequences of failing to update your change of address can range from missed bills to service lapses, to loss of retirement funds or a valid vote. You have to forward your mail, and much of it can be done online. So be proactive and make sure you know how to fill out a change of address with everyone who needs it.  

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    Sources: https://www.bekins.com/2014/08/14/ultimate-check-list-changing-address/ https://www.moving.com/tips/change-address-checklist-who-to-notify-when-you-move/ https://lifehacker.com/change-your-address-everywhere-on-this-printable-checkl-1756811578