When you’re in the middle of planning a move, changing your address might not be the most exciting task—but it’s one of the most important. Updating your address ensures that bills arrive on time, services transfer smoothly, and you don’t miss anything important after you settle in.
To help make your move easier, the team at Movers USA has created a complete address change checklist, with direct links and helpful tips to make the process fast and stress-free.
✅ Before You Move: Plan Ahead
Before moving day, gather all the information you’ll need, such as your new address (including apartment number, if applicable), move-in date, and account info for the companies you’ll be updating.
Need help packing or organizing your timeline? Download our Moving Checklist for a full guide to pre-move prep.
📬 1. USPS – United States Postal Service
Start here. Set up mail forwarding through USPS so your mail follows you to your new home. This will ensure you don’t miss bills, notices, or packages while you update each organization individually.
👉 Update online here: https://moversguide.usps.com
🕒 Takes effect in 7–10 business days
💵 Fee: $1.10 identity verification
🏛️ 2. IRS and State Tax Agencies
Make sure the IRS and your state tax department have your updated address to avoid missing tax documents, refunds, or future notices.
👉 IRS change of address: https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc157
👉 Maryland state tax update: https://www.marylandtaxes.gov
👉 Virginia state tax update: https://www.tax.virginia.gov
🚗 3. DMV – Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration
By law, you must update your address with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles within a certain number of days after moving.
- Maryland DMV: https://mva.maryland.gov
- Virginia DMV: https://www.dmv.virginia.gov
- Washington, D.C.: https://dmv.dc.gov
Pro tip: Some states allow you to update your address online—no line, no wait!
💡 4. Utilities & Home Services
Make sure to notify and transfer the following services:
- Electric & Gas (e.g., BGE, Dominion Energy)
- Water & Sewer
- Trash & Recycling
- Internet & Cable (e.g., Xfinity, Verizon Fios)
- Home Security
Contact each provider at least 1–2 weeks before your move to schedule shut-off and reactivation dates.
Need help managing logistics? Our full-service moving team can coordinate with utility companies as part of our concierge services.
💳 5. Banks, Credit Cards & Loan Providers
Update your address with all financial institutions to avoid missing important statements or alerts.
- Banks (e.g., Bank of America, Chase, credit unions)
- Credit card companies
- Mortgage lenders
- Student loan servicers
- Investment & retirement accounts
Most of these can be updated directly through your online banking portal in minutes.
🏥 6. Insurance Companies
Notify each of your insurance providers of your new address, especially if your move crosses state lines or zip codes (which may affect your rates).
- Health Insurance
- Auto Insurance
- Homeowners or Renters Insurance
- Life Insurance
Tip: This is a great time to shop around for better coverage!
📦 7. Online Shopping & Subscriptions
Make sure to update your shipping address on any site where you regularly shop or receive packages, such as:
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.com
- Chewy: https://www.chewy.com
- Subscription boxes (FabFitFun, BarkBox, etc.)
Also check streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+—some services use your zip code to determine content access.
🏫 8. Employer, Schools & Medical Providers
Don’t forget to inform:
- Your employer (for tax forms and HR records)
- Your children’s schools and daycare providers
- Your primary care doctor, dentist, and specialists
- Any pharmacies (especially if you get mail-order prescriptions)
Many of these institutions may also require updated proof of residency, so keep a copy of your lease or closing statement handy.
✉️ 9. Friends, Family & Memberships
Lastly, update:
- Friends and family (send a change of address email or postcard!)
- Religious organizations or clubs
- Alumni associations
- Loyalty programs (airlines, hotels, grocery stores)
📦 Make Moving Easy with Movers USA
At Movers USA, we do more than lift boxes—we help our clients transition with confidence. From local and long-distance moving to climate-controlled storage, our trusted team handles every detail so you can focus on settling in.
Want help planning your next move? Contact us for a free quote and let’s make it stress-free together.
