Changing homes? It's not just about getting a mortgage, packing moving boxes and shopping for new furniture and pots and pans. Changing your physical address comes with a slew of other things you'll likely need to change. Luckily we pulled together a change of address checklist, so you don't have to go this all alone! 

 

Our 19-point checklist of changes to make when you move to a new address! 

Your mailing address

Sure, you hardly get any snail mail anymore, but notifying the local post office of your change of address will ensure that any physical mail you do get is forwarded to your new place for at least a year. Plan to do this at least a week before moving day, so you don't miss anything.

Your utilities

As soon as you know the date of your move, you'll want to make arrangements to switch over your gas and electricity! Don't forget to shut it off at the old place, too. Although, we think it's good karma to leave it on for a day longer just in case the people moving in after you run a little late and end up moving overnight! 

Your internet access

Call your internet provider to alert them to your change of address as early as you can. Even if you get your bills electronically, you'll want to make sure they have your correct billing address. And ask about any “welcome to the neighborhood” or “new homeowner” deals that might apply. Also, if you haven't cut the cord on cable TV and landlines, take care of them as well. 

Your cell phone 

Do the same for your mobile phone service. And while you're at it, change your home address in your actual phone. This way, if you lose it and someone finds it, they can more quickly return it. Changing your location will also help apps like Google Maps and Waze help you get familiar with your new neighborhood faster. 

Your renter's insurance

If you have a renter's insurance policy (smart idea, by the way), you'll want to cancel that. But first, get the policy provider on the phone and ask if they protect items during a move while being packed or in transit. You might also want to ask about homeowner's insurance. You're going to need it! 

Your health insurance

While we're on the subject of insurance, be sure to notify the agencies that provide you with health, dental, vision and life insurance. 

Your doctors and dentists

Be sure your doctor, dentist, optometrist and vet are all aware of your new address. Even if they don't regularly send you a physical bill, they'll need it for insurance purposes. If you're moving out of town, they may even be able to offer referrals for new health services. 

Your tax filing 

No matter where you move, the feds will find you, so be sure to notify the IRS of your new address. For local taxes, go to the government website for your state and poke around for a change of address instructions. This is especially important if you're moving out of state. Even more so if you're moving from a high tax state to one where taxes are less. (Congrats, BTW!)

Your direct deposit

Making monthly mortgage payments is near impossible if you don't have easy access to your paycheck. If your employer offers direct deposit, make sure they're aware of your change of address. If you aren't changing banks, this might not be necessary, but they'll need to know your new address for pay stubs, W2s and 1099 tax forms, so take care of that before they start asking questions.

Your primary bank and creditors

Speaking of banks, give your bank and credit card providers a shout. More than likely, you can change your address online. Do the same for any smaller credit accounts you have, like retailers, gasoline brands, airlines or other loyalty cards. Making sure they have your current address will help keep your identity from being stolen.

Your student loans

Still have student debt? You can't run away from it no matter how hard you try, so you might as well make sure they also have your new address.

Everything automotive

Identification is paramount in today's world, so you'll want to change the info on your driver's license as soon as you get into your new place. More so, you'll want to change out the personal data on your vehicle registration. Not only is this important for your sanity, but it might also help lower your car insurance premiums — so reach out to them, too. 

Your pets

You'll want to get a new license for your four-legged companion once you're in your new home. And change the tags on their collars with the new address and phone number. More importantly, if they're microchipped, reach out to the tracking company to make sure they have your new contact information. Moving is disorienting for dogs and cats, and they easily can go missing during this transition, so keep an eye out!

Your e-commerce routine

If you're one of those people who hit the BUY NOW button without verifying the shipping details, watch out! Our tip is to change your address early on, so you don't end up buying a new toaster online and having it shipped to your old place. Make a list of online brands you shop with most and spend some time changing your address with each one. Just don't buy anything (you're still saving for closing costs, right?)

Your suitcases

Not that we're suggesting you leave as soon as you move in, but you will want to vacation at some point. Make sure your luggage tags don't have the old address! 

 

More to change when you move!

Locks! 

It's always smart to change the locks in your new home as soon as possible — you never know who had the keys to the place before it was yours. If possible, do this before moving in, so you'll be able to lay in bed on that first night without a worry. 

Alarm batteries!

Most carbon monoxide and smoke detectors operate for about six months on a single battery, so you'll need to replace them about twice a year. Most people do this when we set our clocks forward for daylight savings time and back to standard time, but don't put it off. Change them out on the day you move in.

Air filters!

Changing a furnace filter is a quick and easy way to purify the air in your new home. The whole procedure should take no more than 5 minutes, not counting the time it'll take to run to the store to purchase a replacement. Best-practices suggest you do this every 60 days, so you might want to get a multi-pack and save some time. 

Toilet seats!

We saved the best for last! If a home is a kingdom, why settle for a used throne? Swapping an old toilet seat with a new one will make your new space feel even more like home. 

 

Ch-Ch-Changes

Handling address changes might seem like a pain in the neck, but not doing so can cause problems that take even longer to fix. For more excellent moving advice, read our “37 things to do when moving to a new home” checklist.