CALIFORNIA58 RELOCATION GUIDE | Updated October 26, 2026. Forwarding mail helps during a move, but a Postal Service change-of-address request is not a universal update to every institution that sends important documents.

Start at USPS

The Postal Service accepts eligible temporary and permanent address-change requests online or through a participating post office. Its instructions explain identity verification, eligible mail and when forwarding begins. Use the official USPS website rather than an unfamiliar third-party service charging additional fees.

Notify sensitive senders yourself

USPS explicitly explains that certain financial, government and identity documents cannot necessarily be forwarded. Banks, employers, insurers, healthcare organizations and agencies maintain their own account records. Submit a separate update to each sender and preserve the confirmation.

Watch for security problems

Keep USPS confirmation details private, ensure the former mailbox is secured during the transition and monitor the new delivery address. Where a crucial document is missing, contact its issuer rather than assuming it was forwarded. California DMV has its own address-reporting requirements, so the two processes should not be confused.

Browse the California58 local newspaper directory for information about the services and communities where you may live.

Official references

General guidance only. Verify requirements for your individual circumstances with the responsible agency.

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