USPS Change of Address: Step-by-Step Guide & Scam Warning
Everything you need to know about official mail forwarding, temporary vs permanent moves, timing guidelines, and how to avoid $80 lookalike scam websites.
Updating your mailing address is one of the most essential moving tasks, yet thousands of Americans fall victim to predatory third-party websites every month.
The Official Cost: The official United States Postal Service online change of address costs exactly $1.10—an identity verification charge processed via your credit card to ensure fraud prevention.
The Scam Trap: Searching Google for "change of address" often shows sponsored ads for private filing services. These sites charge $40 to $99 just to submit the exact same standard USPS form on your behalf. Always ensure your browser address bar displays "moversguide.usps.com" or "usps.com".
Temporary vs. Permanent Moves: If you are moving for an internship, temporary work assignment, or living away for under 6 months, select "Temporary Forwarding". Standard permanent forwarding forwards First-Class mail and magazines for 12 months, giving you time to update individual accounts.
When to File: Submit your change of address request 10 to 14 days before your official move-out date. Mail forwarding can take 7 to 10 postal business days to fully route through regional sorting centers.
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