Change of Address Checklist

Moving house is one of life’s most significant changes; it’s a strange mix of excitement and worry, and it also comes with a long list of admin tasks, that’s where our change of address checklist comes into play!

There are lots of important issues that need your attention; however, one of the most important jobs is updating your address.

Miss it, and you risk losing mail, missed bills, or even identity fraud.

The trick is to tackle it methodically, step by step.

That’s why it is a great idea to have a checklist; it helps you focus on what is important and also acts as an aid memoire, ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks. Plus, it makes the whole move far less stressful.

From banks to broadband, and from healthcare to voting, here’s a detailed guide covering all the essential updates you need to make before and after moving day.

1. Redirect Your Post with Royal Mail

When you move, you can’t guarantee that everyone will immediately have your new details. That’s why setting up a Royal Mail Redirection is a lifesaver.

It ensures all letters and parcels sent to your old home are automatically forwarded to your new one.

You can set it up for 3, 6, or 12 months, and extend if needed. All associated costs are listed online.

This is especially important for sensitive items, such as bank statements or medical records.

Applying online takes minutes and provides peace of mind while you gradually notify organisations of your move.

It’s worth setting this up at least a week before your move date to avoid any gaps.

2. Notify Your Bank and Financial Providers

Banks, building societies, student loan companies, bonds and investments, and credit card companies should all be high on your priority list.

Out-of-date records can cause security issues and prevent important documents from reaching you.

Most major banks now allow you to update your address through their mobile apps or secure online portals, making the process typically quick and simple.

Don’t forget savings accounts, pensions, investment platforms, and even store cards.

If you’re subscribed to paperless billing, it’s still important to check your details are correct across all accounts.

Some financial providers require proof of your new address, such as a recent utility bill, so keep one handy.

Updating your details early avoids unnecessary trips back to the old address to retrieve mail.

3. Update Your Driving Licence and Vehicle Documents

Most importantly, by law, you must notify the DVLA when you change address. This means updating your driving licence and V5C vehicle logbook too.

Failing to do so could land you with a fine of up to £1,000, so it’s a legal requirement, not just a formality.

Car insurance providers also need to know, as your postcode can influence your premium.

If you pay road tax by Direct Debit, updating your V5C ensures that reminders are sent to the correct address.

The good news is that changing the address on your licence is free, and you can do it online in minutes.

Get this sorted early to avoid problems when renewing insurance or selling your car.

4. Contact Utility Providers

The last thing you want to face when you arrive at your new home after a long and tiring day is no gas or electricity supply, particularly if you are moving in winter.

Energy companies need accurate final meter readings, so you’re not charged for someone else’s usage.

Before you leave your old home, contact your gas, electricity, and water providers to supply final readings and settle your accounts.

At your new home, you’ll need to take opening meter readings and either continue with the existing supplier or switch. Make sure you take photos of both meter readings as evidence/proof of authenticity.

Moving is a perfect opportunity to compare tariffs using sites like Uswitch or Compare the Market.

Also, remember oil or LPG suppliers if your property uses alternative fuels.

Inform your waste collection and council tax departments simultaneously, as many councils handle both.

Taking these steps avoids billing errors and potentially save you money.

5. Broadband, TV & Streaming Services

Many of us work from home, so being connected to the internet is essential.

Losing internet access in a new home is frustrating, so contact your provider as soon as you know your move date.

Most broadband companies need at least two weeks’ notice to transfer your service.

Use this opportunity to reassess whether your current deal remains competitive.

Here again, do some research, sites like MoneySuperMarket help compare prices and speeds, which often vary depending on your postcode.

Don’t forget TV providers like Sky or Virgin Media, as well as streaming platforms like Netflix or Disney+.

Updating your TV Licence is also essential.

Moving house can even be the perfect opportunity to cut back on subscriptions you no longer use, helping to keep your bills down.

6. Inform Your Employer and HMRC

Your employer requires your accurate address for payroll, pension, and HR records.

If you receive paper payslips, P60S, or pension information, these must be sent to the right place.

You also need to update HMRC so that your tax code, National Insurance, and benefits are correctly recorded.

Forgetting this could lead to tax errors or missed correspondence about rebates or payments.

If you receive Child Benefit, Tax Credits, or other support, updating your details ensures nothing is interrupted.

The good news is that most changes can be submitted online. Doing this promptly saves you from chasing missing paperwork later.

7. Healthcare Providers

Moving house means registering with a new GP surgery and dentist if you’ve relocated outside your current practice’s area.

You’ll need to complete a registration form and provide proof of address. In a few days, your medical notes will be transferred to your new surgery.

If you take regular medication, ask your current GP for enough repeat prescriptions to cover the transition period.

Don’t forget other healthcare providers such as opticians, physiotherapists, or private clinics.

Don’t forget your pets! Most of us have pet insurance and are registered with a local veterinary surgery; they need notification of your move, too.

Updating the NHS Organ Donor Register and ensuring your EHIC/GHIC card details are correct is also a good idea.

Making health updates early prevents delays in accessing care when you need it most.

8. Schools and Childcare Providers

If you have children, please inform their school or nursery of your new address as soon as possible. This ensures they can contact you in an emergency and keeps records up to date.

If you’re moving far enough that your child will need a new school, apply as soon as possible via your local authority.

You can find details through GOV.UK school admissions. Spaces can fill up quickly, particularly in oversubscribed areas.

Don’t forget after-school clubs, sports teams, and childcare providers, who also need your details.

Keeping everyone informed helps avoid disruptions for your children and makes their transition smoother.

Some parents even arrange school tours in advance to help children feel settled.

9. Subscriptions and Online Shopping Accounts

Modern life comes with numerous subscriptions, ranging from gym memberships and magazines to food delivery services.

Make a list of all your accounts (going through your bank statement will help identify all your subscriptions) and update your address to avoid missed deliveries or wasted payments.

This includes Amazon, eBay, and other online shopping accounts where your address is stored for deliveries.

If you use services like HelloFresh or Gousto, updating your details ensures boxes don’t go astray.

If you’re moving to a new location, check whether your gym contract allows for membership transfer to a new branch.

While updating, it’s also a good time to cancel services you no longer use, saving money as you settle into your new home.

10. Insurance Policies

Insurance companies require your correct details to ensure cover remains valid. This includes home, contents, car, travel, life, and health insurance.

If you don’t update your address, you could risk invalidating a claim.

Premiums are often postcode-dependent, so a move might even reduce your costs.

Compare providers on sites like Compare the Market to see if switching can save you money.

Also, remember to update your roadside assistance and breakdown cover.

Some insurers request proof of your new address, so keep a utility bill handy.

Contact each provider at least a week before your move to give them time to process the change.

11. Local Authorities and Electoral Register

Your local authority needs to know when you move so that your council tax bill is accurate. You can usually inform them online via your council’s website.

At the same time, update the Electoral Register.

Being registered at your new address ensures that you can vote in local and general elections, and it may also affect your credit rating.

If you receive parking permits, resident discounts, or local waste services, these will also need updating.

Sorting this early prevents missed bills and avoids unnecessary late payment charges.

Councils usually allow you to provide notice before moving, making it easier to plan ahead.

12. Friends and Family

It’s easy to focus on the official admin and forget the personal touches.

Letting friends and family know your new address ensures you don’t miss out on birthday cards, Christmas gifts, or last-minute visits.

A group email or WhatsApp message works well, but some people still like the tradition of sending printed “We’ve Moved” cards.

If you’re tech-savvy, you can even design one online through sites like Moonpig.

Sharing your address early avoids confusion and saves you from having to resend details multiple times.

It’s also a great way to invite loved ones to visit your new home once you’re settled in!

Final Thoughts – Smooth Moves with GoodMove

Changing address involves more than just redirecting the post.

From utilities to healthcare, every update plays a part in ensuring you have your move under control and that it is as stress-free as possible.

Use this checklist as your go-to guide, ticking tasks off as you go.

To take even more pressure off your shoulders, GoodMove offers professional, reliable removal services across the UK.

With GoodMove, getting there couldn’t be easier. We’ve been helping families and individuals move across Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk for years, offering a seamless, stress-free experience every time.

• Convenient home or video surveys, scheduled when it suits you
• Tailored removals packages delivered by skilled, friendly crews
• Flexible storage options, both short and long term, for added peace of mind

Getting started is simple. Request your free quote today by calling us, filling out our quick quote form, or chatting directly with Brad, our virtual moving assistant in the corner of this page.

With GoodMove by your side, your upcoming house relocation, from start to finish, will be a much more enjoyable experience.

With expert packing, careful handling, and secure transport, your belongings are in safe hands while you focus on settling into your new home.