United States Postal Service Forward Mail – How-To Guide

Changing addresses? Going on vacation? No problem. The United States Postal Service forward mail service is here to make sure your important letters and packages follow you wherever you go. Whether it’s a temporary move or a permanent relocation, USPS offers several forwarding options to help keep your mail safe, secure, and delivered without interruption.

What is USPS Mail Forwarding?

Mail forwarding is a service offered by USPS that reroutes your mail from your old address to a new one. It ensures you don’t miss out on bills, government notices, checks, and personal letters while you’re away or settling into a new place. USPS has offered this service for decades, adapting it over time to include both short-term and long-term solutions for various needs.

Why You Might Need Mail Forwarding

Here are some common scenarios where mail forwarding can be a lifesaver:

• Relocating Permanently: Changing residences means updating your address across hundreds of services—forwarding gives you time to do it gradually.
• Traveling for an Extended Period: Ideal for snowbirds, students, or frequent travelers.
• Military Deployment: Keeps important mail accessible even when you’re stationed abroad.
• Managing an Estate: Forwarding mail for a deceased relative or handling legal matters.

Types of USPS Forwarding Services

1. Standard Change of Address (COA)
   
   This service forwards First-Class Mail®, Priority Mail®, and Express Mail® to your new address for 12 months. It’s the most common option used during permanent moves.
2. Temporary Forwarding
   
   You can request temporary forwarding for periods of 15 days to 6 months, with an optional extension of another 6 months.
3. Premium Forwarding Service (PFS)
   
   If you’re frequently relocating, this premium option consolidates your mail weekly and sends it via Priority Mail. It includes:
   • Residential PFS
   • Commercial PFS for businesses

How to Set Up Mail Forwarding with USPS

Setting up mail forwarding is easy and can be done in two main ways:

Online Setup via USPS.com

• Visit moversguide.usps.com
• Choose permanent or temporary forwarding
• Provide your old and new addresses
• Pay a $1.10 identity verification fee using a credit card
• You’ll receive a confirmation email with your Change of Address (COA) Confirmation Code.

In-Person Setup

• Go to your local Post Office
• Request PS Form 3575
• Fill it out and submit it at the counter
• You’ll receive a Move Validation Letter and confirmation via mail

Costs and Duration of Forwarding Services

How USPS Handles Different Types of Mail

• First-Class Mail®: Forwarded free of charge
• Periodicals: Forwarded for 60 days
• Packages (Priority & Express): Forwarded during the forwarding period
• Standard Mail® (bulk/ads): Not forwarded unless requested

Exceptions to What Gets Forwarded

Some types of mail won’t follow you:

• Marketing or “junk” mail
• Mail addressed to “Current Resident”
• Oversized packages from private carriers (UPS, FedEx)
• Government-issued IDs or licenses may require manual updating

Address Change Confirmation and Notifications

Once your request is processed:

• You’ll receive a Customer Notification Letter
• USPS may also notify companies and organizations (opt-in)
• Use your Confirmation Code to update or cancel the forwarding at any time.

Problems You Might Encounter with Mail Forwarding

• Delay in Delivery: Initial lag of 7–10 days
• Partial Forwarding: Not all mail types included
• Mail Sent to Old Address: Businesses might not update quickly

How to Update or Cancel a Forwarding Request

You can manage your request online using your Confirmation Code:

• Modify end dates
• Change forwarding address
• Cancel the request entirely
• Visit: managemymove.usps.com

Business Mail Forwarding

Businesses can also forward their mail using either:

• Standard COA for businesses
• Premium Forwarding Service Commercial (PFSC)

You may also submit requests on company letterhead if multiple departments or individuals are involved.

Forwarding for Multiple People or Households

When forwarding mail for more than one person:

• Submit separate forms for each individual unless you share a last name
• Use family forwarding options for household moves

Mail Forwarding and Identity Theft

To prevent fraud, USPS:

• Requires credit/debit card verification
• Sends verification letters to both old and new addresses
• Monitors suspicious changes

Always review your mail forwarding confirmation letters to ensure they’re legitimate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does USPS forward mail after a change of address?
   
   USPS forwards First-Class mail for 12 months and magazines for 60 days.
2. Can I extend my mail forwarding beyond a year?
   
   Yes, by submitting a new change of address request before the current one expires.
3. How do I forward someone else’s mail?
   
   You must have legal authority and provide valid identification. Each person needs a separate request.
4. Does mail forwarding include packages?
   
   Yes, Priority Mail and Express Mail are forwarded. Packages from private couriers are not.
5. How do I cancel mail forwarding early?
   
   Use your USPS Confirmation Code to access the online portal and cancel the request.
6. Is mail forwarding safe?
   
   Yes. USPS uses verification tools to prevent unauthorized forwarding and identity theft.

Conclusion

USPS’s mail forwarding service is one of the most practical tools available when moving or traveling. With options for temporary and permanent forwarding, along with premium services for frequent movers, it ensures that your mail keeps up with your life. Whether you’re an individual, a family, or a business, understanding how to set it up can save you time, stress, and lost communication.