How to Set Up USPS Mail Forwarding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mail forwarding lets the Postal Service redirect your incoming mail to a new address for a set period. Whether you're moving, relocating temporarily, or managing mail for a business transition, understanding how to set it up—and what to expect—helps you avoid gaps in important correspondence.

What USPS Mail Forwarding Actually Does

Mail forwarding instructs USPS to intercept mail addressed to your old address and deliver it to a new one instead. The service doesn't change your address in anyone's records; it's a temporary redirect that sits between the sender's intention and your mailbox.

This distinction matters. You'll still need to update your address with banks, employers, subscriptions, and government agencies separately. Forwarding catches mail from senders who haven't been notified—but it's not a permanent solution and won't find mail sent to addresses you no longer use after the forwarding order expires.

How to Submit a Forwarding Request

Online (Fastest Option)

1. Visit USPS.com and navigate to the mail forwarding section.
2. Provide your old address, new address, and the intended start date.
3. Verify your identity using a credit card or USPS account credentials (this confirms you're authorized to redirect mail from that address).
4. Confirm the forwarding duration you need.
5. Pay the applicable fee (fees vary by forwarding type and duration; check USPS.com for current pricing).
6. You'll receive confirmation by email.

At a Post Office

1. Visit your local branch in person with valid government-issued ID.
2. Request Form 3575 (Change of Address form).
3. Fill out the old address, new address, effective date, and duration.
4. Pay the fee at the counter.
5. Request a receipt or confirmation.

By Mail

1. Obtain Form 3575 from USPS.com or your local post office.
2. Complete it fully and mail it to your nearest post office.
3. Processing takes longer than online or in-person submission.

Key Variables That Affect Your Setup

What Happens After You Submit

Once approved, USPS typically begins forwarding within 3–5 business days. Your mail will be sorted and sent to your new address with an additional postal marking. Delivery time depends on how far your mail travels; expect mail to take longer than usual during the forwarding period.

Mail that can't be forwarded—packages marked "do not forward," items requiring signatures—may be returned to senders. This is why updating your address with important senders separately remains essential.

Common Limitations to Know

• Forwarding expires. You'll need to renew it if you want mail redirected beyond the initial period.
• Some mail won't forward. Magazine subscriptions, packages with delivery confirmations, and some government mail may not be eligible.
• Addresses matter. A forwarding order applies only to the exact address you list; mail to similar addresses won't forward automatically.
• Costs add up. If you're forwarding for multiple household members or a business, each order is a separate fee.

Next Steps After Forwarding Is Active

Update your address directly with:

• Banks and credit card companies
• Insurance providers
• Employers and payroll systems
• Government agencies (IRS, Social Security, DMV, voter registration)
• Subscriptions and memberships
• Healthcare providers
• Utilities and service providers

This prevents mail from being sent to your old address in the first place—more reliable than catching it with forwarding.

Your right approach depends on your move timeline, how many senders need updating, and whether you need temporary or longer-term coverage. Set up forwarding as one part of a broader address-change strategy, not your only step.