How to update your address with the IRS, banks and everyone else
Work through a change of address checklist and tell each sender directly, starting with banks, your employer, insurers and the IRS. USPS forwarding doesn't update anyone's records, and some sensitive mail won't be forwarded. For the IRS, file Form 8822 or use your new address on your next return. Expect about 4 to 6 weeks to process.
Why you need a change of address checklist
Think of this as replacing a temporary fix with a permanent one. Mail forwarding covers you for up to 12 months, but USPS leaves the job of telling agencies, companies and other senders to you. The risk is highest with the mail you can't afford to lose. USPS says senders may block forwarding of identity documents, credit cards, bank statements, insurance details and other financial or medical information. A card sent to your old address also lands with whoever lives there now.
Who to notify when you move, and in what order
Update money and identity accounts in the week you move, then work through the rest as mail arrives. Each yellow forwarding sticker is a reminder of someone you missed. Make the IRS change early if you expect a refund or a letter, since processing generally takes 4 to 6 weeks. If you're filing a tax return soon, simply using the new address on it also counts.
Change of address checklist with timing for each sender
| Who | How to update | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| USPS forwarding | usps.com/move, or in person | Allow at least 7 to 10 business days; lasts 12 months |
| Magazines and newspapers | Each publisher | Forwarded for only 60 days |
| IRS | Form 8822, your next return, a signed letter, phone or in person | Generally 4 to 6 weeks |
| Children who filed returns | A separate Form 8822 for each child | Generally 4 to 6 weeks |
| Banks, cards, investments | Online profile or phone | First week |
| Employer payroll | HR or payroll portal | First week, so your W-2 reaches you |
How to work through your change of address checklist
- Make your list
Pull a few months of bank and card statements. Any company you pay or that pays you belongs on it.
- Start with money
Update banks, cards, loans, investment and retirement accounts. Change billing addresses on saved payment methods too.
- Tell your employer
Update payroll and benefits, and ask if your state withholding changes.
- Update government benefits
Contact Social Security if you get benefits, along with VA or Medicare if they apply. Your health insurer needs the change too.
- File with the IRS
Download Form 8822 from irs.gov. List your old and new addresses and Social Security number, and include your spouse if you filed jointly.
- Mail it to the right office
Use the address on page 2 that matches your old state. Don't attach it to your tax return.
- Finish the everyday list
Update doctors, the vet, schools, subscriptions and shopping sites.
- Watch the stickers
For the next year, treat every forwarded piece as a to-do and update that sender.
Who to notify when you move to another state
A move inside your state usually needs fewer changes. Crossing a state line adds more. Ask payroll if your state tax withholding needs to change, and check with both states' tax agencies, since the IRS guidance doesn't cover state returns. Your Form 8822 goes to a mailing address that depends on your old state, as shown on page 2 of the form. Your license, registration and voter record each have their own state deadlines and are covered on a separate page. Health plans can change by area too, so call your insurer before you see a new doctor.
Mistakes when you change address with the IRS
- Assuming USPS tells the IRS. A USPS change may update your IRS record, but the IRS says it isn't guaranteed.
- Joint filers forgetting a signature. If your last return was joint, your spouse must sign Form 8822 too, unless you're setting up separate homes.
- Third parties. The IRS won't accept a change from an unauthorized person. A representative must attach a power of attorney.
- Old accounts you rarely check, such as a 401(k) from a past job, a small brokerage account or a safe deposit box. A missed statement can go unnoticed for years.
- Sending personal details by email. Use official portals, and don't change your address through a link in an unexpected message.
Questions about Form 8822 and updating your address
Does the IRS get my new address from the post office?
It may, but the IRS says that isn't guaranteed. Tell it yourself with Form 8822, a signed statement or your next tax return.
Do I have to file Form 8822 if I'm filing taxes soon?
No. The IRS also accepts your new address on your next return. Form 8822 is useful if a refund, notice or letter could arrive before then.
Will banks get my new address from USPS?
Don't count on it. USPS says updating senders is your job, and bank statements and credit cards may not be forwarded at all.
General guidance for U.S. homes, not professional advice. For gas, electrical and structural work, call a licensed pro.