How to Complete a Change of Address Request With USPS

If you are moving, even temporarily, you need to notify the United States Postal Service (USPS) of your new address if you want your mail forwarded there. To make this process as easy as possible, the USPS allows its customers to complete a change of address online, by mail or over the telephone. You should start receiving your forwarded mail at you new address within seven to 10 days after the effective date of the address change.

Online

• 1

  Go to the USPS website and click on the "All Products & Services" tab near the top of the homepage. On the following page, click on "Change Your Address" under the "What Would You Like To Do?" heading.

• 2

  Read the privacy statement on the following page and click on the acknowledgement button to continue.

• 3

  Select the type of move you are making, permanent or temporary, and enter the date you would like the USPS to start forwarding your mail. Click on the "Continue" button.

• 4

  Indicate whether the move is for an individual, family or business. Click on the "Continue" button.

• 5

  Enter your name, old address, new address and email address into the fields on the next page. Click on "Continue."

• 6

  Provide your debit card or credit card number on the following page to verify your identity and to pay the $1 verification fee. Click on the "Submit" button. You will receive a confirmation notice by email.

By Mail

• 1

  Obtain the change of address request form, PS Form 3575, by downloading one from the USPS website or by going to your local post office.

• 2

  Complete the change of address form by providing your name, old address, new address, date you want the mail forwarded and the type of move you are making. If the move is temporary, provide the date you want the mail forwarding to end.

• 3

  Give the change of address form to your mail carrier or bring it to your local post office. You will receive confirmation by mail within a few days.

By Telephone

• 1

  Call the USPS at 800-275-8777 and say "Change of address" when prompted.

• 2

  Speak your name, old address, new address, date to start forwarding and type of move when prompted by the USPS interactive voice response system.

• 3

  Provide your credit or debit card number as proof of your identity and to pay the $1 validation fee. You will receive a notice of confirmation in the mail.