US Postal Service has new policy for change of address
The new USPS policy for change of address requires a few extra steps that consumers will not want to miss.
www.fox13seattle.comHere are the latest broad updates on USPS address changes:
- The United States Postal Service has been emphasizing stronger identity verification for change-of-address requests. This includes steps such as confirming via codes or in-person ID checks to combat mail fraud. This policy shift has been reported across multiple outlets since 2023 and continued in related coverage through 2024 and 2025.[1][2][3][5][7]
- Online COA submissions may involve additional verification steps (e.g., activation codes sent to email) and, in some reports, a potential in-person verification or presenting ID at a local office depending on the method chosen. The overall goal is to reduce fraud while maintaining mail forwarding service.[3][5][1]
- The service remains free to initiate a change of address at a post office, with online changes sometimes featuring optional processing enhancements or small processing considerations cited by various outlets. If you prefer a paper or in-person route, you can still visit a local post office to complete the form.[9][3]
- For movers, USPS continues to offer mail forwarding for a defined period (typical for First-Class Mail and Express Mail) while you update your address with relevant senders. Processing timelines can vary by method and destination, so planning ahead helps prevent mail gaps.[7][9]
What this means for you in Los Angeles
- If you’re changing your address within the USPS system, expect enhanced verification steps regardless of whether you apply online or in person. Start online only if you’re prepared to complete the additional verification sequence; otherwise, visiting a local post office is a reliable alternative.[1][3][9]
- If you’re forwarding mail to a new address, confirm the forward is activated correctly by following the chosen method’s verification steps (email code, ID verification, or in-person check) to avoid delays or failed changes.[5][3]
A quick example workflow
- Option A (online): Submit COA → receive activation/verification code → verify identity (via code and ID as required) → COA completes.
- Option B (in person): Visit a local post office → fill COA form with ID → COA activated after staff verification.
If you’d like, I can narrow this down to current official USPS pages and walk you through the exact steps for your situation (temporary vs. permanent forward, online vs. in-person). I can also pull the latest local guidance or a checklist specific to Los Angeles if you want.[9]