Us Post Office Change Of Address Form Updated Official
The official PS Form 3575 (Change of Address Order) remains the primary document for rerouting mail, but the United States Postal Service (USPS)
recently updated its security procedures to combat identity theft and fraud . The most significant update is that online submissions are no longer instant
; they now require secondary identity verification either via mobile phone or an in-person visit. Key Updates to PS Form 3575 & Verification
The following changes are now in effect for all permanent and temporary moves: In-Person Verification Required for Online Failures
: If you submit your change of address online and the system cannot verify your identity through your credit card or mobile phone, you will receive an email with a barcode or QR code
. You must bring this code and a valid photo ID to a local Post Office to finalize the request. Form Printing Restriction
: You can no longer print PS Form 3575 from your home computer to mail in. To submit a hard copy, you must visit a local Post Office and request a "Mover's Guide" packet. Identity Verification Fee : Online submissions at the official USPS Change of Address website now incur a identity verification fee (recently increased from $1.10). Credit Card Matching
: The billing address on the credit/debit card used for the online fee must match either your old or new address to successfully verify your identity. Submission Methods Identity Verification Verified via credit card/mobile or QR code at PO Verified by retail clerk with valid photo ID Directs you to visit a PO to finalize verification Free (excluding postage) Important Requirements Acceptable Identification us post office change of address form updated
: You must present an unexpired primary form of ID, such as a state driver's license, U.S. passport, or military ID. : Requests can be submitted up to 90 days before the move and up to 30 days after Confirmation Code
: After a successful submission, you will receive a 16-digit confirmation code. Keep this code
, as it is required to modify or cancel your request online; otherwise, you must visit a Post Office in person for changes. For the most secure and official process, always use the official USPS.com website
to avoid third-party scams that may charge $40 or more for the same service. United States Postal Inspection Service (.gov) Post Office location to pick up a Mover's Guide packet in person?
You can no longer download a printable PS Form 3575 from the official USPS website due to security and identity verification updates. To submit a paper change of address, you must obtain a physical Mover’s Guide packet directly from a Post Office location. 📍 How to Get and Use the Paper Form
Visit a Post Office: Ask a retail associate for the free Mover’s Guide packet.
Verify Identity: You must bring a valid photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) to submit the form in person. Cost: Filing the paper form in person is free. The official PS Form 3575 (Change of Address
Timeline: Submit the form at least 7–10 business days before your move to avoid mail disruptions. 💻 Digital Alternative
If you prefer to skip the trip, you can use the Official USPS Change of Address Online portal.
Verification Fee: Online filing requires a $1.25 identity verification charge.
Instant Confirmation: You receive a confirmation code via email immediately. ⚠️ Security Warning
Be cautious of third-party websites that may appear in search results. Official USPS filings never cost more than the $1.25 online verification fee. Non-USPS sites often charge $40 or more and are not affiliated with the Postal Service.
💡 Key Point: Your request cannot be activated until your identity is verified, which is why the paper form is now primarily handled in person at retail locations. If you'd like, I can help you:
Find the closest Post Office to your current or new zip code. List the specific types of ID accepted for verification. Explain how to handle a business vs. individual move. Standard Forward Mail | USPS Key Changes to the US Post Office Change
The updated USPS Change of Address process (PS Form 3575) now centers on enhanced identity verification to combat fraud. While you can still start the process online for a $1.10 – $1.25 fee, a failed digital verification now triggers a requirement to visit a local Post Office in person with a specific QR code and government-issued ID to finalize the request. A Story of the "New" Move
Imagine Sarah, a long-time resident of a quiet street, finally ready to move across town. In the past, she might have just dropped a paper form in a blue mailbox and assumed her mail would follow. But in 2026, the story looks different. Knowledge: Change of Address - The Basics - FAQ | USPS
Key Changes to the US Post Office Change of Address Form
If you have moved in the past two years, you will notice several differences. Here is what has been updated:
Choose Temporary if:
- You are a college student returning home after graduation.
- You are on a short-term work assignment (less than 6 months).
- You are a seasonal resident (e.g., winter in Florida, summer in Michigan).
Important: Under the US Post Office change of address form updated rules, temporary forwards automatically expire. You cannot request a permanent forward early if you initially chose temporary—you would have to cancel and re-file.
How to File the New Form
- Online (Recommended): Visit the official USPS.com/move. Have your photo ID, last step of your previous address, and a credit/debit card ready.
- By Paper: Pick up the new PS Form 3575 at any Post Office lobby. Complete it with photo ID verification and drop it off with a clerk (no longer acceptable to leave in a blue collection box).
Warning to consumers: The USPS reminds residents that no third-party website is authorized to file an official change of address. Many private sites charge $20–$40 for the same free/ $1.10 service. Always look for .gov or USPS.com in the URL.
For more information, visit the USPS Postal Inspection Service’s fraud alert page or speak with your local Postmaster.