Who to Notify When You Move: Complete Change of Address Checklist
Paperwork might not be the most exciting part of a move, but it’s one of the most important. Failing to update your address can lead to missed bills, delayed services, or even credit issues. To help you stay organized and avoid surprises, we've created your change of address checklist — a simple, printable tool for notifying the right people at the right time.
As you prepare to relocate, be sure to review our packing mistake prevention guide to keep things running smoothly.
Address changes might not be physically exhausting like packing boxes, but they play a key role in maintaining continuity in your life. Forgetting to update even a single provider can result in late fees, missed insurance notices, or important medical mail arriving at the wrong place. Taking care of this list early makes the rest of your move feel lighter — literally and mentally.
This checklist is ideal for both first-time movers and seasoned pros. Whether you're moving across Des Moines, switching apartments in Ankeny, or transitioning to a home in West Des Moines, the process stays the same. Proactively handling address changes means fewer headaches once the moving truck pulls away.
☑️ Government and Identification Updates
- USPS: Submit your address change at moversguide.usps.com for 12 months of mail forwarding.
- DMV: Iowa requires license and registration updates within 30 days of moving.
- Voter Registration: Update your voting district at sos.iowa.gov.
- IRS: File Form 8822 or make changes when submitting your next tax return.
Failing to update your license or vehicle registration can result in fines or delays. Some services may allow online address changes, while others may require an in-person visit. Set reminders to handle these tasks as soon as your move-in date is locked in.
☑️ Utilities and Home Services
- Contact electric and gas providers such as MidAmerican Energy to start and stop service.
- Notify your city’s water and sewer department to update billing information.
- Schedule internet and cable transfers at least one week before moving day.
- Arrange trash and recycling services through your local municipal or private provider.
Missing a utility transfer can leave you without heat, internet, or essential sanitation services. Plan ahead and keep service confirmation numbers in a central spot — either in your phone or a printed folder with your other move documents.
Not sure your utilities will be ready in time? Our local moving services in Des Moines offer flexibility for move-in timing and delivery windows.
☑️ Financial and Insurance Providers
- Update mailing addresses for banks, credit cards, and loan providers.
- Notify your insurance companies — including home, auto, life, and renters — of your new location.
- Review billing statements to ensure everything reflects your current address.
- Check with your auto insurer about premium adjustments based on your new zip code.
- Ensure any paper checks or statements sent by mail reflect the correct destination.
Address mismatches can lead to fraud alerts or service interruptions. Updating financial institutions early helps maintain smooth transactions and protects your credit profile.
☑️ Subscriptions, Deliveries, and Retail Accounts
- Change your shipping address for Amazon, Etsy, and other online retailers.
- Update billing info for streaming services, mobile apps, and subscription boxes.
- Forward or cancel magazine and newspaper subscriptions.
- Modify loyalty accounts like Target Circle, Walgreens Rewards, or Starbucks Stars to reflect your new area.
- Make a list of recurring orders (like pet food, household goods, or vitamins) and change those addresses, too.
Even one outdated shipping address can lead to packages being sent to your old residence. Adjust retail and subscription services immediately after scheduling your move to avoid confusion or delays.
☑️ Medical, School, and Employer Records
- Inform your doctor, dentist, and pharmacy about your new address.
- Update school records and emergency contacts for children or dependents.
- Notify your employer’s HR department to update payroll and tax information.
- Transfer prescriptions to a new pharmacy near your home, if applicable.
- Check with your healthcare provider about in-network changes based on your new zip code.
Medical and school records are time-sensitive. Keep them accurate to ensure continuity in care, attendance, and communication. Your health and your children's education shouldn’t skip a beat due to a missing update.
💡 Bonus Tip
Include columns for service name, old address, new address, contact info, and date completed. That way, you’ll have a clear record if anything goes awry — and you won’t second-guess whether you’ve already submitted an update.
When Should You Start Updating Addresses?
Begin this process two to three weeks before your move. While some services update instantly, others — like government records — may take time. Early action ensures everything is in place when you arrive at your new home.
The earlier you start, the fewer last-minute surprises you’ll face. Spread out the updates over a few days so you can tackle each category methodically — and with fewer headaches.
As your move gets closer, don't forget to review our moving day etiquette tips for an easy, respectful transition.
Final Thoughts | Your Change of Address Checklist = Stress-Free Moving
Moving is about more than packing boxes. Your change of address checklist helps protect your information, keep services running, and stay connected during your transition. It’s an essential step for anyone moving within Iowa or across state lines.
Missing even one key address change can lead to problems down the line — missed bills, lost deliveries, or delayed insurance claims. Taking time to walk through this checklist ensures you’re covered from every angle.
Blue Cow Moving & Storage is proud to support local moves throughout the Des Moines metro with flexible scheduling, packing, and storage options to make your relocation smooth from start to finish.
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