When you’re moving, updating your address is something you can’t forget. Since most people don’t do it often, it helps to have a simple guide. You’ll want to know the best time to make the change during your Chicago move and how to go about it step by step.
When to Change Your Address
You’ve finalized your plans—either bought a new home or signed a lease for a new apartment. Now it’s time to move, and you want everything to go smoothly and efficiently. Part of that includes knowing exactly when to update your address.
- First, hire a reliable moving company in Chicago to help with your move.
- Next, follow their tips on how to pack and prepare properly.
- Then, make a moving checklist of everything you need to handle during the move—don’t forget to include updating your address on that list.
- Lastly, make sure everything is well-timed so the move goes smoothly.
If you wait until the last minute to update your address, you might miss important mail. It can also make things more stressful once you move into your new place. The best time to change your address is about a week before your move—or at least a few days in advance.
If you’re moving within Illinois, you need to update your address with the Illinois Secretary of State’s Driver Services Department within 10 days. You can do this online, by mail or in person. The good news is you don’t have to get a new driver’s license or ID card unless you want to.
You’ll need to update your address not just with the Illinois DMV but also with the USPS. It’s a good idea to take care of both a few days before your move. If you don’t get to it before moving, try to update your address as soon as you settle in—ideally within a day or two after arriving at your new place.
How to Change Your Address
When you’re moving in Chicago, you’ll need to update your address with the Illinois DMV, the USPS, your bank, credit card companies and any services or subscriptions you use. It might feel like a lot to do but it’s important to get it done.
Begin by updating your address with the USPS. You can do it easily online at USPS.com/move for just $1, using a credit or debit card to confirm your identity. If you prefer, you can also change your address at your local post office for free but keep in mind that it might take a bit longer for your mail to start arriving at your new home.
Next, update your address with the Illinois Secretary of State’s Driver Services Department. You can do this online. Just have your Illinois driver’s license or ID, your Social Security number and your new address ready. If you prefer, you can also update it by mail or by visiting a Secretary of State office in person.
Updating your address with your bank, credit card companies, utility providers, subscription services and any other companies you use is usually as easy as making a quick phone call. It might feel a little repetitive, but it’s something you’ll need to do when you move in Chicago.