Planning a short-term move or an extended trip? Before you hire a moving company or book your tickets, consider filing an official U.S. Postal Service (USPS) change of address (COA) to ensure your mail reaches you at the right place and time. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about filing a temporary change of address—including what it is, how it works, and why you might need to.

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Steps to File a Temporary Change of Address

Follow these steps to file a temporary change of address and set up mail forwarding with the USPS.

• Gather the necessary information: Before initiating a temporary or permanent change of address order, make sure you have all the details and documentation you need. This includes your current address, your temporary new address, the effective date of your mail forwarding, and the end date.
• Choose a filing method: The easiest way to file a change of address is online. Simply visit the official USPS website and navigate to the Change of Address section. Alternatively, you can file at your local post office using PS Form 3575.
• Complete the appropriate form: Fill out the required information in the online form and follow the instructions to submit it electronically. To file in person, request a change of address form from the clerk at your local post office, fill it out, and then return it to the clerk.
• Verify your identity: If you file online, the USPS will send a one-time passcode or verification link to your mobile number. You will also have to pay a $1.10 identity verification fee via credit or debit card. Make sure the address associated with your card matches either your new or old address. If you file in person, bring a valid photo identification card, such as your driver’s license or passport.
• Confirm your submission: After submitting the online form, you will receive a confirmation email. You will also receive a confirmation letter in the mail, regardless of how you file. Keep this documentation for your records. You will need the included confirmation number to modify or cancel your mail forwarding service.

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Temporary Change of Address vs. Permanent Change of Address

USPS offers two ways to change your address—temporary and permanent. Both options allow you to forward mail to a new address, but the timeline will vary.

A permanent change of address notifies the post office that your new address is permanent. USPS will reroute mail to your new address indefinitely. This is often used when moving to a new home.

USPS recommends a temporary change of address if you are relocating for 15 days up to one year. After the confirmed end date, your carrier will deliver mail to the original address. This option is best for people going back to school or traveling.

Once the post office receives your change of address request, it can take between three to 10 business days for the temporary forwarding to go into effect. With that in mind, it’s best to file your request at least two weeks before you want your mail forwarding to begin.

Standard mail forwarding is not your only option. You can ask the post office to hold your mail until you return, or you can upgrade to its premium forwarding service. With premium mail forwarding, the postal service will hold mail for a week, bundle it together, and send it to you all at once by Priority Mail.

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Reasons for a Temporary Change of Address

Several scenarios can lead an individual or family to change their address temporarily. Here are a few examples.

• Work assignments: You may need to change your address for a temporary job relocation or assignment in a different city or country. This will ensure important work-related documents arrive at the correct place.
• Extended vacations: If you plan to take a long vacation or travel for an extended period, you may temporarily change your address to keep mail from piling up at home. 
• Medical treatments: You may want to file a temporary change of address before undergoing intensive medical treatment, such as in-patient rehab or chemotherapy. The same is true if you relocate to care for a relative during their treatment or recovery. 
• Educational pursuits: Students attending college in a different city or country might choose to temporarily change their address so that important mail goes directly to them instead of their parents.
• Seasonal residences: Some families might have a summer home or migrate to different locations during certain times of the year, which requires a temporary change of address.
• Home renovations: A planned home renovation or emergency home repairs can force you to vacate your home temporarily. Filing a temporary change of address will save you the hassle of stopping by your house daily or weekly to pick up mail.

Whatever the reason for your temporary change of address, proactively notifying the post office will minimize your risk of missing critical mail or losing valuable packages. Setting up mail forwarding can provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your work assignment, enjoy your vacation, or prioritize your health without worrying about mail complications.

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Tips for a Smooth Temporary Change of Address

Here are a few tips to make sure your temporary change of address is as smooth as possible.

• Notify important contacts: Inform banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other important contacts of your address change.
• Set up mail forwarding in advance: Arrange for mail forwarding well before the temporary address change to avoid delays.
• Double-check the details: Make sure your new address is listed correctly before submitting your change of address request.
• Bring a second form of ID: To file a change of address in person, bring along a second form of ID to verify your mailing address, such as your vehicle registration card.
• Plan for package deliveries: Update your address directly with retailers or redirect packages to a temporary PO Box or a trusted address, such as a relative’s house.
• Monitor your mail: Keep an eye on both your old and new addresses to catch any stray mail and update senders as needed.

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Our Conclusion

Taking advantage of the temporary change of address process will help you enjoy a stress-free move or extended absence without worrying about missing important mail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily notify the post office of your temporary change of address and ensure your mail reaches you. Remember to notify important contacts, set up mail forwarding ahead of time, and double-check the accuracy of your address.

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FAQ About a Temporary Change of Address

How long can you temporarily change your address?

You can temporarily change your address with the USPS for 12 months. This includes the initial six-month maximum for a temporary change of address plus the maximum six-month extension. After 12 months, you must wait at least 45 days to submit another change of address order or file a permanent change of address.

Can I change my address temporarily online?

Yes, you can change your address temporarily online. Visit the USPS website to begin the process.

What is the difference between a temporary change of address and mail forwarding?

The only difference between a temporary change of address and mail forwarding is the potential duration. The former refers to notifying the post office of a temporary move, while mail forwarding can be arranged for either a temporary or permanent move. However, these terms are often used interchangeably and refer to the same basic process.

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