Top Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting a USPS Change of Address: Moving to a new home or office is an exciting yet stressful process. One crucial step that often gets overlooked is submitting a USPS Change of Address (COA) request correctly. Failing to update your address properly can result in missing important mail, delayed financial documents, or even identity theft. To ensure a smooth transition, this guide will walk you through common mistakes people make when updating their address with USPS and how to avoid them. Whether you are moving permanently, temporarily, or for business reasons, this article will help you get everything right the first time.
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting a USPS Change of Address
Submitting a USPS Change of Address request is a simple yet essential step when moving. Avoiding common mistakes such as delaying your request, entering incorrect details, or falling for scams can save you from major mail delivery issues.
Key takeaways:
- Submit your COA request at least two weeks before moving.
- Only use the official USPS website to avoid scams.
- Verify that all details are correct before submitting.
- Remember that USPS forwarding is temporary, so update your address directly with banks, government agencies, and subscription services.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Mistakes | Procrastination, incorrect details, choosing the wrong COA type, falling for scams, not updating services |
| Processing Time | USPS recommends submitting a COA at least two weeks before moving |
| Mail Forwarding Duration | First-Class Mail & Periodicals: 12 months, Magazines & Newspapers: 60 days |
| Official Change of Address Cost | $1.10 for online identity verification |
| Where to Submit | Official USPS website: USPS Change of Address |
| Who Needs to Update Address | Individuals, families, businesses, renters, homeowners |
Why Updating Your Address with USPS is Important?
When you move, your mail doesn’t automatically get redirected to your new home. Instead, USPS requires you to submit a Change of Address (COA) request to ensure your mail follows you. If you don’t, you risk:
- Missing important bills and bank statements
- Delays in tax documents, credit card replacements, and legal notices
- Losing important personal letters or packages
- Increasing the risk of identity theft if sensitive mail is delivered to your old address
To avoid these issues, submit a USPS Change of Address request as soon as possible before moving.
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting a USPS Change of Address
1. Waiting Too Long to Submit Your Change of Address
Many people make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to submit their USPS Change of Address request. This can lead to delayed or lost mail. USPS recommends submitting your request at least two weeks before your move to allow processing time.
Example: If you’re moving on April 15, submit your request by April 1 to ensure your mail starts forwarding on time.
2. Choosing the Wrong Type of Address Change
USPS offers two types of address change requests:
- Permanent Change of Address – Your mail is forwarded indefinitely, and USPS updates your records.
- Temporary Change of Address – Mail is forwarded for 6 months (extendable to 12 months) and then stops.
Mistake: Some people select a temporary COA when they actually need a permanent one, causing their mail to stop forwarding unexpectedly.
3. Entering Incorrect or Incomplete Information
A simple typo in your address can result in misdelivered or undelivered mail.
Common mistakes include:
- Misspelling the street name (e.g., “Main St.” instead of “Maine St.”).
- Forgetting to include an apartment or unit number.
- Using an incorrect ZIP code.
Before submitting, double-check all details to ensure accuracy.
4. Not Updating the Address for All Household Members
If multiple people in your home are moving, ensure they each submit a COA request unless everyone shares the same last name.
Solution:
- If all household members have the same last name, submit one request.
- If members have different last names, each person must submit a separate request.
5. Falling for USPS Change of Address Scams
Many third-party websites charge $40 or more for a USPS Change of Address request. However, the official USPS fee is only $1.10 for online identity verification.
Solution: Only submit your COA request at the official USPS website
6. Assuming USPS Forwards All Mail Types
USPS forwards most mail but not everything.
Mail that is forwarded:
- First-Class Mail, Periodicals, and Priority Mail (Up to 12 months)
- Magazines and newspapers (Up to 60 days)
Mail that is NOT forwarded:
- Presorted Standard Mail & Marketing Mail (junk mail, flyers)
- Credit Cards & IRS Notices (you must update directly with the sender)
To avoid issues, update your address directly with banks, government agencies, and subscription services.
7. Forgetting to Update Your Address with Other Services
Even though USPS forwards mail, you still need to update your address with important entities such as:
- Banks & Credit Card Companies (to avoid fraud alerts)
- IRS & Social Security Administration (IRS Form 8822)
- DMV (Driver’s license & vehicle registration)
- Amazon, Netflix, and other subscription services
- Utility companies (electricity, water, internet, etc.)
To stay organized, make a checklist of all companies and services that need your updated address.
How to Properly Submit a USPS Change of Address?
1. Choose the Correct Method
You can update your address through:
- Online: Visit https://moversguide.usps.com and pay the $1.10 identity verification fee.
- In-Person: Go to your local post office and fill out PS Form 3575 (no fee required).
2. Verify Your Identity
To prevent fraud, USPS requires identity verification. This is why an online COA request costs $1.10.
3. Keep Your Confirmation Number
Once you submit your COA, you’ll receive a confirmation number via email or mail. Save this number in case you need to modify or cancel your request.
Avoid Mail Mishaps: Update Your USPS Address Before It’s Too Late!
New USPS Address Change Rules in 2025: What You Need to Know
USPS Suspends China Shipments Amid Trade Tensions – What It Means for You!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take for USPS to process a Change of Address request?
USPS typically takes 7-10 business days to process a COA request.
Can I cancel or update my Change of Address request?
Yes, you can modify or cancel your request by visiting https://moversguide.usps.com and entering your confirmation number.
Does USPS forward packages and parcels?
USPS only forwards First-Class Packages. Larger parcels may require Premium Forwarding Services (PFS).
What happens if I don’t update my address with USPS?
If you don’t submit a COA request, your mail will continue to be delivered to your old address, increasing the risk of missed bills, lost documents, and identity theft.
