USPS Change of Address 2026: Cost, Steps and Timing
Last updated 2026-07-10 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
USPS forwards your mail for up to 12 months when you submit a change of address. The online process takes 5 minutes and costs $1.10 for identity verification.
Step: Visit moversguide.usps.com or USPS.com/move
Step: Pick temporary (under 6 months) or permanent
Step: Enter old and new address
Step: Pay $1.10 to verify your identity (one-time fee)
Step: Choose start date
Step: Receive confirmation by mail and email
How to forward mail when you move.
When: Submit at least 2 weeks before move-in. Standard mail starts forwarding within 7-10 business days.
Watch out: USPS does not forward packages from UPS, FedEx, or Amazon. Update each retailer separately.