How to Change Your Address with USPS After Moving — Official 5-Minute Online Guide (2026)
After moving in the U.S., many people assume updating their address can wait.
But once bank notices, insurance letters, or government mail start going to your old home, a small delay can turn into a serious headache.
That’s why USPS Change of Address should be one of the very first things you do.
This guide shows the official, secure way to complete it online in about 5 minutes.
Always submit your address change directly through the official USPS Change of Address page.
If a website asks for significantly more than $1.25, it is likely a third-party service or a scam.
📌 Quick Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Official website | USPS.com → Move / Change of Address |
| Online fee | Identity verification fee (currently $1.25) |
| In-person option | Available at post office / Free |
| What you need | Old address, new address, start date, email, card (online) |
| Time required | About 5 minutes online |
| Red flag | $10–$40 fees → likely third-party or scam |
📖 Details
1) Why USPS address change matters
USPS forwarding is more than a convenience — it’s a basic safeguard after a move.
In the U.S., many important notices are still delivered by mail, and missing them can lead to penalties, delays, or lost benefits.
2) Online vs. post office submission
Online submission is fast and can be done from home, but USPS charges a small fee to verify your identity.
Visiting a post office is completely free.
You’ll complete a paper Mover’s Guide form and submit it in person.
If you prefer not to enter card information online, this is a solid alternative.
3) Step-by-step online process
As long as you use the official USPS site, the process is straightforward.
- Go to USPS.com → select “Move” or “Change of Address”
- Choose type: Individual or Family
- Enter old address and new address
- Select forwarding start date
- Complete identity verification and confirm via email
4) What to check after submitting
USPS will send a confirmation email once your request is processed.
Keep this email — it contains details you’ll need if you update or cancel the request later.
💡 Tips & Common Mistakes
-
Avoid third-party sites:
Official USPS fees are minimal. High charges are a warning sign. -
Family option:
Family forwarding usually applies to people with the same last name. -
Update institutions separately:
Banks, insurers, and the IRS require direct address updates. -
Coupons vary:
Moving coupons (Home Depot, Lowe’s) may be included, but availability changes.
This article provides general U.S. living information.
Procedures, fees, and eligibility may change based on timing and individual circumstances.
Always confirm final details directly with USPS. (Updated: Dec 2025)
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