Who to Notify When You Move

Knowing who should be notified about your move is crucial to a seamless transition into your new home or business. While we understand that calling up your gas company is likely the last thing on your mind when you’re knee deep in moving boxes, there can be consequences to forgetting to notify certain people and places. It’s best to do this earlier rather than later so you can avoid service lapses, missed bills, and other potential hassles.

Not sure where to begin? We’ve got you covered. Here’s our complete list of whom you should notify when you’re preparing for an upcoming move!

1. Your employer

Even if you have direct deposit, you still want to make sure that your employer is aware of your move. That way, you’ll receive your tax forms, pay stubs, and other important documents to the right address.

1. The post office

The post office should be one of the first establishments that you notify, as you can have your mail forwarded from your old address to your new one for 12 months. You can easily begin your official change of address by visiting the USPS website or by visiting your local post office. Make sure you do this at least a week before you move, that way there isn’t any gap between when you move and when the mail forwarding starts.

1. Tax agencies

Both the IRS and your state tax agency must be notified of your move. Like USPS, you can fill out a simple form online to change your address with the IRS. For your state tax agency, you’ll want to head to your state’s government website to find specific instructions.

1. Utilities

If you forget to file a change of address with your utilities, you could end up paying the electric bill for the people who move into your old house. With that said, make sure you update your address with your cable, internet, and phone providers, in addition to your gas and electric companies.

Depending on your municipality, you may also need to notify the sewer utility company, garbage collector, and/or water department.

1. Insurance providers

All of your insurance providers need to be made aware of your change of address so they can send you an updated policy. This includes dental insurance, health insurance, life insurance, car insurance, and homeowners or renter’s insurance. You don’t want to have any problems filing a claim down the line if you forgot to update your address.

1. The DMV

Depending on your state, you may need to file a change of address, update your vehicle’s registration, and even obtain a new driver’s license from the Department of Motor Vehicles. All the specific deadlines and instructions will vary based on where you live.

1. Social Security Administration

If you receive any social security benefits, do not forget to let the Social Security Administration know the new address that you will be moving to. You can easily submit a change of address through their website or call them at 800-772-1213.

1. Banks and credit card companies

In most cases, the process of updating your mailing address with your bank and credit card companies is very easy and can be done online. However, make sure you check with your specific providers.

1. Health service providers

Don’t forget to let your dentist, doctor, and even your pet’s veterinarian know about your move. If you are remaining in the vicinity, this step is important for billing and mail purposes. Though, if you are leaving the area, you should still contact them to update your address and ask for help with referrals

1. Magazines and subscriptions

If you receive any magazines, newspapers, or other subscription services, make sure you update your address on their website or by calling their customer service line. This includes any memberships you may have, like Sam’s Club or Costco.

1. Loan providers

While I’m sure you’d love for those pesky student loans to lose track of you, you need to let all your loan providers know about your change of address.

1. Online retailers

Take some time to draft up a list of the online retailers you frequently purchase from and go to each individual website to update your address. Although this may seem tedious, when it comes time to make a purchase, from places like Amazon or eBay, in your new home you might accidentally select your old address.

1. Friends and family

Of course, you don’t want to forget to share the exciting news with your close friends and relatives. Simply announcing your move on Facebook won’t be enough, as not everyone is on social media. Instead, either send out a massive email or a change-of-address postcard. That way, Grandma knows exactly where to keep send your birthday and holiday cards!