Whether you are moving across town or across the country, you will need to file a change of address (COA) to ensure that all of your mail reaches you. While this is generally pretty simple, there are some things you will want to keep in mind to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Check Your New Address
First things first, make sure you have accurate information for your new address. You will also want to get your zip code + 4 code. The additional 4 numbers aren’t typically used by anyone but the post office. However, having the entire zip code + 4 means that your mail will be delivered faster.
Temporary or Permanent COA?
The US Postal Service has two options for Change of Address (COA): Temporary and Permanent. Temporary COA means that they will forward your mail for a specific period of time, from 15 days to 6 months. If you are moving, then you probably need a Permanent COA.
Changing Your Address with the Postal Service
There are three different ways you can change your address with the postal service:
1. Online: To fill out the COA form online, you will need an email address and a credit or debit card which has the same address listed as your current address or the address you are moving to. This method costs $1.
2. Phone: You can call 1-800-ASK-USPS to change your address via phone. Like with the online method, you will need a credit or debit card and there is a $1 fee.
3. Change of Address Form: You can get this form (Form 3575) at the post office or you can print it off of the USPS website. Just fill out the form and mail it to the address listed. There is no fee for this method. With this method, you should send in the form at least 2 weeks before your move.
When filling out the COA form, remember to include the name of everyone in your household. Otherwise, their mail won’t be forwarded! If the members of your household who are moving have different last names, then fill out a separate COA form for each of them.
How Long Is Mail Forwarded
The Postal Service mail forwarding service isn’t forever. They will only forward your mail for a specific period of time, which is why it is so important that you update everyone (including magazine subscriptions, newspapers, etc.) with your new address.
Express mail, first-class mail, and priority mail will be forwarded for 12 months. After the 12th month and up to the 18th month, the mail will be sent back to the sender with information about your new address. If you receive any new mail 18 months after submitting the form, the mail will also be returned to the sender, but without any information about your new address.
Magazines and newspapers are only forwarded for 60 days. After that, they will be returned to the sender with information about your new address.