Change of Address Checklist

When the lease is up and you’re preparing to move out and change your address, you need to notify your landlord of the forwarding address as part of your tenant responsibility.

This is best done sooner rather than later to avoid any inconvenience when moving to a new address. Failing to notify the right people and places about your new address might lead to service lapses and missed bills.

Here at Limehouse Property Management, we’ve put together this address update checklist as you prepare to leave your rental home.

United States Postal Service

You can file a change of address request online or in person. Your invoices, bills, letters, etc., will be forwarded to your new address 12 months after the specific start date you set.

If you change your address online, you’ll be asked to fill out a form asking for the details of the move, such as who is moving, your old address, your new address, and whether the move is temporary or permanent. 

You’ll be required to provide a valid email address, as well as a credit or debit card. To prevent fraud, USPS will charge you $1.10 as an identity verification fee.

If it’s more convenient for you to do it in person, just go to your local Post Office and pick up a Mover’s Guide and follow all instructions.

Federal Revenue Agency and State Tax Agency

One of the most important government agencies you should notify when moving to a new address are the tax agencies – both federal revenue and state tax.

There are several options for you to notify the Internal Revenue Service of your new address.

First, you can do so through a phone call. You’ll need to provide information such as your full name, date of birth, a valid taxpayer identification number (SSN, ITIN, EIN), your previous address, and the address you’re moving to.

You can also do this in writing. Including all the information mentioned above, a signed written statement can be sent to the IRS.

Another option is to download Form 8822, fill it out completely, and submit it to your respective IRS office. 

Lastly, you can also opt to change your address on your next tax return. It’s best to ask your tax preparer for guidance when choosing the best way to update your address.

For your state tax agency, on the other hand, you can go to your state’s government website and follow the instructions on how to process address changes. Most states make it easy to change the address online or make the forms available for download.

Social Security Administration

You must also update your address in the SSA database if you receive social security benefits.

You can simply log into your My SSA account and update your contact information. Enter your new address and set the start date.

You can also call SSA at (800) 72 1213 to let them know about the change in your address.

If you don’t have an existing account, you can create one and enter your new address. 

If you are a SSI recipient or don’t have a US mailing address, you must call their phone number or your local SSA office.

Department of Motor Vehicles

For you to settle in as a new resident in a new state, you must fill out the change of address form for your driver’s license and vehicle registration. 

Gas and Electric Companies

To avoid interruption of service, you must inform your gas and electricity companies about your address change. Make sure to set your moving dates correctly to avoid unboxing and unpacking in the dark.

It’s important that you contact your utilities provider at your new address so you can easily update the details. You can always ask your new landlord for assistance in processing address updates.

Phone, Cable, and Internet

When dealing with changes for your phone, cable and internet services, the best person to assist you is your new landlord.

If not, you can always speak with your service providers to know the steps in keeping your subscriptions or services when moving to a new location. They’ll let you know if there’s a need to terminate their services and find a new provider, or just transfer the services to the new address.

Your Employer

Your employment records should also be updated. Speak with human resources or whoever’s in charge of keeping and updating employee data.

While your pay is directly deposited to your bank account, it’s crucial to inform your employer of your new address to keep your tax forms and other government-mandated contributions aligned.

Also, it’s crucial that your employers know your new address in case of emergencies.

Bank, Credit Card Company, and Other Financial Agencies

Your bank and credit card company should also be informed so you can continue to receive your statements, information about your account and your new cards.

Updating the address can be done online, via phone, or at the branch.

Loan and Insurance Providers

Avoid missing payments and incurring unwanted interest on your loans by updating your address.

You can speak with their respective customer service representatives by going to their office to inform them of the move.

Magazines and Subscription Services

Don’t miss out on any of your magazine subscriptions! Make sure to let all the magazine and subscription companies know of your new address so they can send the latest edition to your new home.

Usually, this can be done online, by email, or through their customer service hotline.

Online Shopping Sites

Avoid the hassle of losing a package because of an outdated address! Make sure to change your address in their app, through email, or via phone.

Homeowners or Renters Insurance

Make sure that your policy can protect you even when you’ve moved to a new place. Talk to your agent about the policy and ensure that the change of address won’t affect your coverage.

Friends and Family

Among all the people and places on this list, it’s important that the people in your life know where you’re moving to. 

You can opt to let them know by sending an email, chat, or even during a get together.

Conclusion

Prior to moving, it’s important to inform all the necessary people, companies, and services of your new address to avoid any issues in the future.

Still unsure of where to begin? Contact Limehouse Property Management! We’re a full-service property management company with the experience and knowledge to answer any of your questions or concerns, from changing your address to hiring movers and everything in between. Call us today to get started!