How to Forward Mail: A Complete Guide to Moving and Updating Your Address

Introduction

Moving can be stressful and overwhelming, and there are many things to remember to make the process smoother. One important aspect of moving is forwarding your mail. This article will serve as a complete guide to forwarding your mail, whether you’re moving across town or to a different state. This guide is aimed at those who have little to no knowledge of mail forwarding and how it works.

Why Forwarding Mail is Important

Forwarding your mail is crucial when you move. Not doing so can lead to lost or delayed mail, which can be a major inconvenience. Imagine not receiving your paycheck or important legal documents such as bills or notices. Additionally, not updating your address can be a security concern as identity thieves can have access to your personal information. By forwarding your mail, you can ensure that you receive all your mail at your new address, and it is a simple, yet important step in the moving process.

The Different Ways to Forward Your Mail

There are different ways to forward your mail, and each has its benefits and drawbacks. Three common methods are USPS forwarding service, online forwarding, and PO box forwarding.

USPS Forwarding Service

Using the USPS (United States Postal Service) forwarding service is the most common method of forwarding mail. It is simple to use, and all you need is your old and new addresses, the date you want the forwarding to start, and $1 verification fee. You can submit the request in person at your local post office, online at USPS.com, or by filling out the paper form and mailing it to the USPS.

The USPS will forward your mail to your new address for 12 months for first-class mail and 60 days for periodicals (newspapers and magazines). After that, the USPS will return the mail to the sender. The USPS forwarding service is reliable, affordable, and straightforward.

Online Forwarding

Forwarding your mail online is an excellent option for those who prefer convenience and speed. Companies like VirtualPostMail, Anytime Mailbox, and PostScan Mail offer online mail forwarding services. To use online forwarding services, you need to create an account and choose a plan. Plans typically include scanning mail, forwarding mail, and depositing checks.

Online forwarding can be more expensive than USPS mail forwarding, but it offers more control. Clients can select the mail they want to forward and the destination address. Online forwarding also offers flexibility in choosing the forwarding address, which can be adjusted with ease.

PO Box Forwarding

PO boxes are secure boxes located in post offices that allow for mail forwarding. They are ideal for those who don’t have a permanent address yet or those who want to protect their mail from theft. To use PO boxes, you must rent one at your local post office and request mail forwarding to your new address.

PO boxes are more expensive than USPS forwarding, but they offer additional benefits, such as a fixed address for your mail and increased mail security. PO boxes can also receive packages and provide privacy when receiving mail.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Forwarding Your Mail

Forwarding Mail with USPS

Step-by-step guide to forwarding your mail with USPS:

1. Visit the USPS website or visit your nearest post office to request a Change of Address (COA) form.
2. Fill out the COA form with your old and new addresses and choose the forwarding date.
3. Pay the verification fee of $1 using a credit card (online) or check/cash (at the post office).
4. Confirm your identity using the confirmation code provided on the website or sent to your email address.
5. Wait for the verification process to complete, and for confirmation of your forwarding request.

Online Mail Forwarding

Step-by-step guide to setting up online mail forwarding:

1. Choose an online mail forwarding provider.
2. Create an account and choose a plan that suits your needs.
3. Provide your old and new addresses.
4. Complete the identity verification process.
5. Start receiving your mail online.

PO Box Forwarding

Step-by-step guide to forwarding your mail with PO boxes:

1. Rent a PO box at your local post office.
2. Fill out a mail forwarding form with your old and new addresses and add the PO box number.
3. Choose the date you want your mail to start being forwarded.
4. Pay the required fees.
5. Wait for your mail to start being forwarded.

Using the USPS Forwarding Service to Change Your Address

Changing your address with the USPS is simple and straightforward. Here’s how:

1. Visit the USPS website or visit your nearest post office to request a Change of Address (COA) form.
2. Fill out the COA form with your old and new addresses and choose the forwarding date.
3. Pay the verification fee of $1 using a credit card (online) or check/cash (at the post office).
4. Confirm your identity using the confirmation code provided on the website or sent to your email address.
5. You’re done! Your mail will be forwarded to your new address.

How to Set Up Mail Forwarding Online

Online mail forwarding is an excellent option, especially for those who are always on the go. Here’s how you do it:

Forwarding Mail with Your Post Office Box

PO boxes are safe, secure, and durable, making them great for forwarding mail. Here’s what you need to do:

The Dos and Don’ts of Forwarding Your Mail

To avoid complications and confusion, here are some dos and don’ts of forwarding your mail:

Dos:
– Update your address ahead of time. Do not wait until the last minute before forwarding your mail.
– Double-check your new address to ensure that it is correct and complete.
– Use a reliable and secure mail forwarding service.
– Use tracking numbers and proof of delivery when sending important documents.

Don’ts:
– Don’t put off forwarding your mail. The longer you delay it, the more mail you’ll miss.
– Don’t forget to update your address with all relevant parties, such as banks, credit card companies, and utility providers.
– Don’t leave mail in your old mailbox as it may cause mail theft and identity fraud.

Mail Forwarding Checklist

Use this simple checklist when forwarding your mail:

– Update your address with the USPS or an online mail forwarding provider.
– Inform your bank, credit card company, and other financial institutions of a change of address.
– Notify utility companies such as gas, electricity, and water.
– Inform government agencies such as the DMV and the IRS.
– Update your address for subscriptions, memberships, and other services.
– Forward mail from your old PO box to your new PO box, if applicable.

DIY Mail Forwarding

If you prefer to handle your mail forwarding independently, here’s how you do it:

1. Contact friends and family to update them on your new address.
2. Contact banks, credit card companies, and insurance providers to update your address.
3. Request your doctor’s office to transfer your medical records to your new address.
4. Cancel or transfer your bills to your new address.
5. Forward the important mail to your new address.

Conclusion

Forwarding your mail is a simple yet essential step in the moving process. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of how to forward your mail through USPS, online, and PO box forwarding. With this knowledge, you can confidently change your address and continue to receive important mail at your new home. Remember to use the provided checklist and follow the dos and don’ts to avoid complications.