How to change your address with the post office

On 14 September 2026, the United States Postal Service announced significant updates to its online change-of-address (COA) portal to combat rising instances of identity theft and mail redirection fraud. As of this date, customers utilizing the official website to forward their mail must now complete a multi-factor authentication process, which includes verifying their identity through a government-issued ID scan or a secure digital identity provider. This shift is designed to prevent unauthorized individuals from rerouting mail without the account holder's explicit consent. The Postal Service emphasized that while the traditional in-person method at local post offices remains available, the digital upgrade is intended to streamline the experience while adding a necessary layer of protection. Customers are reminded that the official USPS website is the only authorized portal for these requests and that third-party sites often charge unnecessary fees for the same service. The agency recommends initiating the change at least two weeks before a scheduled move to ensure a seamless transition of mail delivery to the new residence.