There’s no denying it — moving to a new home is a gigantic hassle. Hiring a moving company, packing everything, scrambling to tie up all the loose ends before settling into a new place can be overwhelming, to say the least. Amidst all the madness, don’t forget to notify everyone about your new address. Doesn’t sound like a big deal? Well, it is. If your mail continues to go to your previous address, you’re risking becoming a victim of identity theft. Also, if you miss a bill, you might incur late fees and penalties. So it’s best to get the process of changing your address started early. Here’s a list of who to notify when moving.

The Post Office

As soon as you have your moving date and new address, alert the United States Postal Service. You can do it online or in person. It’s easy to change your address online — just go to USPS.com and follow the prompts. There is a one-dollar fee. If you’d rather handle it for free, go to your local post office branch and get a Mover’s Guide packet. The change of address form is inside the packet along with some other goodies. Both methods allow you to choose a specific date to start forwarding your mail. In case you forget to notify someone, letting the post office know about your move will ensure you still receive your mail.

Utilities – Electric / Gas / Water /Sewer

No one wants to end up in their new home without water, electricity or heat, so it’s important to contact the utility companies as soon as you have a new address and moving date. Regardless if you are transferring service or disconnecting all together, you need to let them know. In case moving takes longer than you had planned, discontinue services at your old location a day or so after your moving date. Start your new service a few days before the actual move, so everything is ready when you get there. Some companies require installation appointments, so keep that in mind and plan ahead.

Internet, Cable, Phone and Cell Phone Companies

It’s difficult for a new place to feel like home if those familiar services like internet and cable aren’t up and running when you get there. Contacting service providers to start service or to get them transferred is a moving must.

Financial Institutions

Some banks allow you to change your mailing address online but others require it to be done over the phone or in person. Also, as long as you’re dealing with the bank, you might want to think about ordering checks printed with your new address.

Employers

Employers need a current address on file for sending tax documents or paychecks, so don’t forget to let them know. As for previous employers, as long as you have your mail forwarded by the post office, there’s no need to let them know about your new address.

Credit Cards

Changing your address with credit card companies is easy. The next time you pay your bill, write your new address on the back of your payment coupon. If you prefer a more personal interaction, just call their customer service number and they will be happy to handle it for you. Remember, many websites keep your credit card information on file. Eventually, those sites will need you to update your billing address so that it matches the credit card company’s information.

Online Sites

Are there websites you use frequently like PayPal, Amazon, Netflix or EBay? Now that you’ve updated your credit card companies with your latest address, why not follow suit and let the online world know too. This will ultimately save you time and frustration when it’s time to check out.

Magazines and Periodicals

While the post office forwards most mail for 12 months, they will only forward magazines and periodicals for 60 days. So make sure all of your subscriptions are up to date.

IRS / Social Security

There are several ways to update your address with the IRS. When you file your taxes, you can simply use your new address. If you want to handle it before tax time, or if you are worried about your refund going to the wrong address, you can can go online and fill out IRS Form 8822. You can also mail them a written statement or call them directly. Don’t forget to notify your state tax agency as well. Most states allow you to change your address online.

Changing your address with the Social Security Administration can be done online or by contacting their local field office directly.

Voter Registration

The last thing you need is to arrive at your polling place on election day and discover that you’re ineligible to vote. Even if you are staying in the same state or even the same city, you need to make sure your voter registration is kept up to date. Moving only a few streets away can change your polling place assignment. Go to usa.gov/election-office to find out how to update your address in your voting district.

Insurance Companies

Don’t forget about your car, home, health and life insurance. You need to be certain that you are covered in your new location. You may also discover that some of your insurance may require modifications or additions.

Family/Friends

Sometimes the most important people in your life are the ones you forget to notify when moving. Whether it’s by email, text or phone call, don’t forget to tell your friends and family the big news. They will appreciate being kept in the loop and not having to wonder next holiday season where to send their well-wishes.

Ideally, begin the process of notifying the world about your new address at least two weeks in advance. That gives you plenty of time and will lessen the stress of that big moving day. Doing so will allow you to enjoy your new home with a little extra peace of mind.

Contact Box-n-Go When Moving

Box-n-Go is a local storage and moving company. While we cannot help your contacts be notify when moving. Box-n-Go can help you with all your storage and moving needs, local or nationwide. All you have to do is call us at 1-877-269-6461.