One common pitfall is using third-party websites. Many private companies mimic the USPS site and charge upwards of $80 to "assist" with your change of address. These sites are not affiliated with the government. To avoid overpaying, always ensure you are on the official .gov domain. The official USPS process is either free in person or costs roughly a dollar online for the verification fee.
If you are moving to an international address, you file a change of address online. You must visit a local Post Office in person.
By understanding these updated protocols—including the mandatory identity verification, the $1.25 online authentication fee, the 2024 enhancement allowing up to 99 submissions, and the pervasive threat of online scammers—you can ensure your mail reaches your new address safely, securely, and without interruption.
The Complete Guide to the Updated US Post Office Change of Address Form
The previous version of the COA form (PS Form 3575) was relatively easy to exploit. Fraudsters could submit a change of address for a victim without their knowledge, redirecting sensitive financial documents, credit cards, or medical information. In response to a spike in mail forwarding fraud and identity theft cases, the Postal Service launched a multi-phase update to harden its verification process.
The most controversial update is the non-refundable $1.10 fee for online COA submissions. This is a processing fee—it is an identity verification fee using the USPS’s partnership with a third-party validation service. The fee covers a credit-based knowledge test (e.g., “Which of these addresses have you lived at before?”). Note: Paper forms filed in person remain free of charge.
Choose your move type: , Family (if everyone with the same last name is moving), or Business . Enter your contact details, old address, and new address.
Provide the postal worker with a primary photo ID. The name on the ID must match the name on the change of address form. Acceptable Forms of ID Include: U.S. State Driver’s License or State ID Card U.S. Passport or Passport Card Uniformed Services ID or Global Entry Card Nexus or Sentri Cards Common Mistakes to Avoid
When you use these fake websites, they charge you excessive hidden fees—often ranging from $40 to $100 or more—claiming it is a "premium processing" or "concierge" service. In reality, they are simply taking your information, charging you an exorbitant fee, and either filing the standard $1.50 online form on your behalf or stealing your credit card data entirely. How to Protect Yourself
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the updated US Post Office change of address form, including new identity verification rules, step-by-step instructions, and how to avoid online scams. Why the USPS Updated the Change of Address Process
Online forms require multi-factor authentication via text message or email.
If you are unable to verify your identity online, moving internationally, or acting on behalf of someone else, you will need to submit your request in person. Here's how:
When filing online, you must pay a $1.05 identity verification fee. This fee must be paid using a credit or debit card where the billing address matches either your old address or your new address. This acts as a digital signature check.