Address Form Updated 2021: Us Post Office Change Of

Here is everything you need to know about the updated USPS change of address form, the new identity verification requirements, and how to successfully transition your mail. Why the USPS Updated the Change of Address Process

: Update the DMV, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

Choose this if you are relocating for a short period (e.g., college students, seasonal workers, or extended vacations). Mail forwarding can be set for a minimum of 15 days up to a maximum of 364 days. You must provide an end date for the forwarding service. Beware of Change of Address Scams

Beyond security, the COA form serves as a critical data engine for the American economy. Through the National Change of Address (NCOA) program established in 1986, the USPS licenses move data to approximately 500 companies. This ensures that while your mail is forwarded for up to one year (for First-Class mail), your new address is also updated in the systems of voter registries and businesses you choose to notify.

If you prefer a face-to-face, paper-based approach, here is how to do it for free: us post office change of address form updated

You must pay a $1.25 fee (recently updated from $1.10) using a credit or debit card.

If you do not have a credit card, prefer not to use the online system, or failed the online verification check, you must visit a local Post Office.

on the security flaws that prompted these recent policy changes.

Gather a valid photo ID before heading to the Post Office if you choose the in-person option. Here is everything you need to know about

A: No. That is now illegal. The updated form requires identity verification that matches the person moving. Submitting for a roommate or relative without their explicit consent is considered mail fraud.

You have two official options to submit your change of address: online or in person. Option 1: Submitting Online (Fastest)

The new form is stricter about who can submit a change for a family member. If you are moving but other family members with different last names are staying behind, the new form requires you to explicitly list every individual who is moving. You can no longer submit a blanket “entire household” change unless all residents share the same last name and are permanently relocating together.

The Ultimate Guide to the Updated US Post Office Change of Address Form (2025-2026) Mail forwarding can be set for a minimum

Mail forwarding is a safety net, not a permanent solution. The USPS will not forward certain types of mail, such as state tax documents, social security checks, or certain financial statements, due to security restrictions. You must update your address directly with your bank, employer, the DMV, and the IRS. Managing and Extending Your Mail Forwarding

When completing the updated form, you must accurately declare the nature of your move:

The paper version (PS Form 3575) is still free, but the update introduces a $0.65 postage fee if you mail it via First-Class postage. You can drop it off at a Post Office lobby for free.

Filing a COA with the USPS creates a vital safety net, but it does not update everyone automatically. You will still need to contact the following organizations directly to ensure your address is permanently updated: