Moving can be stressful for many reasons and one big reason is handling all the small details needed to settle into a new place. Staying calm and avoiding frustration depends on staying organized, because a long to-do list can quickly feel overwhelming, even for people who usually plan everything carefully.
If you have recently moved or are about to move into a new home or apartment, the free checklist below can help you make sure you’ve informed all the necessary people and services. Missing even one important update could increase the risk of identity issues.
Who to Notify When You Move to a New Home or Apartment
Updating your address is an important step when you move. It helps you receive important mail, protect your identity and ensure essential services like electricity are available in your new home. To make the move smooth and secure, you’ll need to inform everyone from your bank to government offices about your new address.
Here’s who you should notify when changing your address:
1. Your Home or Renters Insurance Company
Make sure to inform your home or renters insurance provider before you move so your coverage is active when you arrive at your new place. Keep in mind that damage during the move itself is usually not covered, so you may need to get separate insurance for the moving process.
Here are the insurance providers you should inform when you move:
- Homeowners or renters insurance
- Car insurance
- Life insurance
- Health insurance
If you don’t update your address with your insurance companies, your policy could become invalid. In serious situations, it may even lead to legal or fraud-related issues.
2. The USPS
To make sure your mail arrives at your new address, you’ll need to set up mail forwarding with the United States Postal Service. This can be done quickly by filling out a change-of-address form online. Your mail will then be sent from your old address to your new one for six months up to a year.
3. The IRS
The government can’t send you important payments, like a tax refund or stimulus check, if they don’t have your correct address. Be sure to update your address with the IRS by submitting Form 8822 online or by mail. While you’re at it, you can also connect your tax return to your bank account so any money owed to you is deposited directly and without delay.
4. Your Employer
If you’re moving because of a new job, let both your current and new employers know your updated address at least two weeks before you move. Your previous employer may still need to send you tax forms or other important documents after you’re no longer in their system.
5. Financial Institutions
To reduce the risk of identity theft, update your address with your bank, credit card companies and any other financial services you use. Stolen mail is a common cause of identity theft, so keeping your correct address on file helps protect your personal and financial information.
Here are some financial organizations you should remember to notify when you move:
- Banks
- Credit card companies
- Lenders
- Investment accounts
- Tax preparation services
Most of these institutions allow you to update your address quickly and securely through their online platforms.
6. DMV
In most states, you’re required to update your address with the DMV within 30 days of moving, even if you’re just relocating within the same city. If you’re moving to another state and have a registered vehicle, you’ll usually need to update your vehicle registration as well.
Here are some important records you can update when you visit the DMV:
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle registration
- Voter registration
- Passport
To avoid delays, it’s best to book an appointment in advance and bring all required documents with you.
7. Social Security & Other Benefits
If you receive government benefits, such as Social Security, be sure to update your address as soon as you move so your payments aren’t delayed or interrupted. The Social Security Administration offers a free online form that makes updating your contact information quick and easy.
You’ll need to update your address if you receive any of the following benefits:
- Retirement benefits
- Disability benefits
- Medicare
- Survivor benefits
- Supplemental Security Income
Even if your payments are sent by direct deposit, the Social Security Administration explains that benefits can be stopped if they’re unable to reach you by mail.
8. Utilities
Be sure to update your address with all your utility providers so services like water and electricity are available at your new home. It’s best to do this at least a month before you move to avoid any delays.
Common utility services to update include:
- Home security services
- Water
- Electricity
- Gas
- Sewage
- Garbage collection
Depending on where you’re moving, you may be able to transfer most of your utility services by phone or online. However, if you’re moving to a different city or state, or switching between a house and an apartment, you’ll usually need to cancel services at your old address and set up new accounts with the utility providers in your new area.
9. Cable and Internet
Along with utilities, remember to update services like cable and internet if your new place uses them. If you work from home or want access right away, arrange for these services to be moved or set up before you move in or on moving day. Since installation may require a technician, it’s best to contact your provider two to three weeks in advance.
10. Subscription Services
Update your address for all subscription services right after you move so packages, magazines and catalogs don’t get delivered to the wrong address. This is especially important if you receive food deliveries or other items that can spoil.
Popular subscription services you may need to update include:
- Online Shopping: Amazon Prime
- Subscription Boxes: HelloFresh, Blue Apron, Dollar Shave Club, BarkBox
- Streaming Services: Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Showtime
- Print Subscriptions: Magazines and newspapers
Most subscription services allow you to change your address easily online through your account or email. You can also contact the company directly and request the update by phone if needed.
11. Apps
Update your home address in your apps on move-in day to avoid being sent to your old place during traffic or navigation. Taking a few minutes to set your new location as “home” will save you trouble later.
Apps to update include:
- Map Apps: Waze, Google Maps, Apple Maps
- Transportation Apps: Uber, Lyft
- Smart Home Apps: TV, thermostat, lights, speakers
12. Doctors and Dentists
Your primary doctor and dentist need your updated address so they can send appointment reminders and important notices. You should also inform any specialists you visit regularly. If you have pets, don’t forget to update your address with your veterinarian as well.
This free checklist is designed to help you stay organized and settled as you adjust to your new home.
Get to Know Your New Neighbors
Whether you enjoy being social or just want someone nearby to help keep an eye on your place when you’re away, your neighbors can be an important part of life in your new home. Taking the time to introduce yourself can make settling in easier and more comfortable.
Your neighbors may turn into close friends or simply familiar faces but first impressions matter. A friendly greeting when you move in is a simple way to start things off positively.
Don’t Forget About Regular Mail
If you’re expecting housewarming gifts or holiday cards, be sure to share your new address with friends and family as soon as possible. It’s a good idea to send out a new address card on the first day you’re able to receive mail at your new home.
