Who to tell and by when (USCIS, school, USPS, DMV), hiring movers safely, getting your deposit back, and taxes in two states.
Americans move often. For a newcomer, a move means more than packing: several offices must know your new address by a deadline.
Before you move
1
Read your lease for the notice to vacate (how many days before leaving you must tell the landlord in writing). Often 30 or 60 days.
2
Book movers or a rental truck early, especially for summer and month-end dates.
3
Plan your last day: cleaning, returning keys, and a final walk-through with the landlord.
Who to tell, and when
USCIS (non-citizens): file the change of address (Form AR-11) online at uscis.gov/addresschange within 10 days of moving. If you have a pending case, the online tool updates it too. See Changing your address with USCIS (within 10 days).
F-1 and M-1 students: tell your school's international office within 10 days. J-1: tell your sponsor.
USPS mail forwarding: at usps.com. It costs $1.25 online for identity checking. It does not update banks or government offices.
Your employer (for your W-2), your bank, credit cards, insurance, phone carrier and doctor.
DMV: update your driver's license address. When you move to a new state, you must get a new state license and car registration within a set time. This differs by state; see In your state below.
Health insurance: moving to a new area can let you change Marketplace plans outside open enrollment (a special enrollment period, usually 60 days). Employer plans may also change.
Utilities and internet: stop service at the old home and start at the new one.
Hiring movers safely
Get written estimates from at least two companies. A binding estimate fixes the price.
Movers who cross state lines must have a USDOT number. Check it on the FMCSA website, and read the booklet "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move", which they must give you.
Be careful with very low online quotes and large cash deposits. Some dishonest movers hold belongings until you pay more.
Moving apps and "labor only" helpers can be cheaper for small moves.
Getting your deposit back
1
Clean well and photograph every room after you empty it.
2
Give the landlord your forwarding address in writing.
3
The landlord must return the deposit, or list deductions, within a deadline. This differs by state.
Taxes
If you move between states during the year, you may file in both as a part-year resident. Keep the moving date.
Common mistakes
Forgetting AR-11 because you changed your address with USPS.
Leaving without written notice and paying an extra month of rent.
Choosing an unregistered interstate mover because it was cheapest.