How Do You Change Your Address With USPS?
Learn how to change your address with USPS, choose permanent or temporary forwarding, and modify or cancel a request with your confirmation code.
To change your address with USPS, submit an official Change of Address request online or at a Post Office so USPS can forward eligible mail to your new address. Choose permanent forwarding for a move, temporary forwarding for a short relocation, and the right request type for an individual, family, or business. USPS still recommends notifying banks, agencies, subscriptions, and other senders directly.
Change-of-address choices
Permanent forwarding
You moved to a new address
USPS forwarding is not the same as updating every sender
Temporary forwarding
You are away 15 days to 1 year
Mail later returns to normal delivery
Individual request
One person moves
Use if household members stay behind
Family request
Everyone with same last name moves
Not for mixed-last-name households
Business request
Business address changes
Different from personal forwarding
Forwarding is not a complete address update
A USPS change-of-address request reroutes eligible mail. It does not update your address with government agencies, banks, insurers, employers, subscriptions, or online stores.
Submit the request
- 1Decide whether the move is permanent or temporary.
- 2Choose individual, family, or business move type.
- 3Use the official USPS Change of Address site or visit a Post Office.
- 4Complete identity verification and keep the confirmation code.
- 5Use the confirmation code if you need to modify or cancel the request.
FAQ
How early should I submit a USPS change of address?
USPS says forwarding may begin within 3 business days, but it is best to allow up to 2 weeks. Submit the request before the move date when possible.
What is the difference between permanent and temporary forwarding?
Permanent forwarding is for a move. Temporary forwarding is for a short relocation, such as being away for 15 days up to 1 year.
Can I cancel a USPS change-of-address request later?
Yes. If your identity verification succeeded online, USPS provides a confirmation code you can use to modify or cancel the request.
Sources & method
We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.
- Standard Forward MailUSPS · usps.comSupports permanent and temporary change-of-address options, identity verification, online and Post Office paths, forwarding timing, and confirmation-code changes.
- Change-of-Address - The BasicsUSPS FAQ · faq.usps.comSupports household versus individual distinctions, notifying senders separately, and unexpected COA dispute guidance.