One of the fastest ways you can end up being a victim of identity theft in the United States is to have your change of address done by the wrong people. A change of address might seem like a simple thing to do but it is more than just that. Having it done with the right body or agency will ensure that your identity documents remain safe and secured from fraudsters. Let’s know How long Does USPS Change of Address Last?
Processing a change of address (COA) with the USPS lasts for 12 months for packages, express mail, and first-class mail. These 12 months allow you to update your address with your employer, friends, family, shopping stores, and other businesses.
How soon will I start getting mail to my new address?
It normally takes about two weeks (between seven to 10 working days) for mail to arrive at your new address. If you prefer to receive your mail on the day you move to your new address, be sure to apply for it two weeks earlier.
Relocation
If you are not going to be available for some time; probably you want to relocate or visit an extended relative, you can simply apply for a temporary change of address. Applying for a temporary change of address will help you receive emails while you are away from home.
Why It is Important to Apply for my Change of Address at USPS
There are many reasons it is important to apply for your change of address at USPS, they include;
- Government Approved
The United States Postal Service is an agency of the executive branch of the United States government, their operations involve providing effective postal service in the U.S. The USPS is recognized by the government.
- Reliable
Being a government-approved agency of the United States, the USPS ensures that they provide services that satisfy the needs of their customers. They have a fast and effective mail delivery system, little wonder they are the only mail delivery system that reaches every address in a country with over 160 million businesses, residencies, and post office boxes. Another interesting thing about the postal service is that they have systems designed to protect customers against unauthorized address change. This way, customers get to have their important documents and identities protected.
- Skilled Employees
According to a report, USPS is one of the largest employers in the U.S, with over 630, 000 employees strategically positioned at the agency’s 34,000 retail locations in the state. The postal service is also made more effective by reaching more people through their website.
Other Services Offered by USPS
Below are some of the services provided by the USPS;
- Providing receipts for purchases
- Renting post office box
- Postage of envelopes and parcels
- Mail confirmation services
- Money order sales
Check out other services provided by USPS, go to the website https://faq.usps.com/s/article/What-Retail-Services-does-the-United-States-Postal-Service-provide
How the Application is Processed?
The processing of the Change of Address depends on the method of application used. For example, if the application is done via the USPS website, using the change of address online form, it often gets processed faster than the physical application. If the application is done by filling out the change of address hardcopy form (PS 3575) given by the postal service, you have to submit it to your letter carrier or through the local post office. From there, it goes to the Computerized Forwarding System (CFS), and then it moves to be processed by the USPS. First-class letters, packages, and express mail are forwarded to your mail for a year while magazines and periodicals are forwarded for 60 days.
Which is more effective, the Online or Physical COA Application?
The change of address request at the post office is the most popularly used by people. Although one might feel that the online application should be, since it is easier and faster to process, many still believe in processing it physically. An advantage of doing this is that errors made by the applicants can be checked and fixed right in the process of filling out the application.
However, an audit report revealed that there are many mistakes associated with signatures, and signature mismatches. Unlike the physical application, the online application is more effective and has fewer errors. Another advantage of applying online is that the processing is faster because credentials can be quickly matched. The online application is much more effective and secure than the physical application.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most common way to change one’s official address?
The most common way to request a change of address is through the hardcopy form gotten at the postal service.
2. Can I change my address by telephone?
Yes, you can, all you need to do is to call 1-800-275-8777.
3. What are the requirements to change my address through the USPS?
You will need to have a valid email address, a debit or credit card. To request a change of address, you can visit any of the USPS retail offices near you, or apply through usps.com via the internet.
