USPS Change of Address

Moving to a new home or location? One of the most important steps you must take is to update your address with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) so your mail doesn’t get lost. USPS offers a quick and secure way to change your address online or in person.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know.

What Is a USPS Change of Address?

A USPS Change of Address (COA) is a request you submit to the United States Postal Service to forward your mail from your old address to your new one. This ensures:

• Important documents (bank statements, government notices, bills) are not lost
  
• You receive all packages and letters after moving
  

Types of Address Changes

Type	Description
Permanent	USPS will forward mail to your new address permanently, and your address is updated in their system
Temporary	Used when you’re away for 15 days to 1 year for vacations, seasonal jobs, or school breaks
Family	One form for an entire household with the same last name
Individual	Used if only one person is moving from a shared address

How to Change Your Address Online (Recommended)

Step-by-Step:

1. Visit the official website:
    moversguide.usps.com
   
2. Click “Start Your Change of Address”
   
3. Choose whether the move is:
   
   • Individual
     
   • Family
     
   • Business
     
4. Enter:
   
   • Your old and new address
     
   • Move date
     
   • Whether the move is permanent or temporary
     
5. Pay a $1.10 identity verification fee using a debit/credit card (USPS uses this to protect against fraud).
   
6. Submit the form and receive:
   
   • A confirmation email
     
   • A USPS confirmation code (important for making edits later)
     

How to Change Your Address at the Post Office

Prefer in-person? You can also:

1. Visit your local USPS branch
   
2. Ask for Form 3575 (Change of Address form)
   
3. Fill it out and drop it in the mailbox or hand it to a postal worker

 No fee required when you file this form in person.

What Mail Gets Forwarded?

Type of Mail	Forwarded?	How Long?
First-Class Mail	Yes	12 months
Priority Mail & Express	Yes	12 months
Magazines & Periodicals	Yes	60 days
Packages (Retail Ground, Media Mail)	No	—
USPS Marketing Mail	No	—

Tip: Update your address with banks, DMV, insurance, Amazon, IRS, etc. to avoid issues.

How to Edit or Cancel Your Change of Address

You can edit, cancel, or extend your request by:

1. Visiting the USPS Change of Address website
   
2. Entering your Confirmation Code (sent by email or letter)
   
3. Making desired changes
   

Additional USPS Services After Moving

• Informed Delivery: Get previews of incoming mail to your new address
  
• Hold Mail: Temporarily stop mail delivery while you’re in transition
  
• Package Intercept: Redirect a package before it’s delivered
  

Beware of Fake USPS Websites

Many third-party websites pretend to be USPS and charge $20–$80 for address changes.
  Avoid these!

Always use the official USPS website:
https://moversguide.usps.com

Final Thoughts

Changing your address with USPS is simple, fast, and secure. Whether you’re relocating temporarily or permanently, filing your Change of Address ensures your mail follows you without interruption. Don’t forget to also update your address with your bank, employer, and subscription services.

A few minutes today can save you weeks of lost mail headaches tomorrow.