Just bought a new home? Relocating to Tacoma? Don't Forget These 25 (3) Address Changes After You Move to Washington
Ok so there’s just 25… but we had to play on your new area code— Welcome to the 253! One of my favorite parts of being a real estate agent is handing over the keys to a client who's finally made it to Tacoma.
Whether you're moving from Seattle, Colorado, California or somewhere across the country, there's always a moment when the moving truck pulls away and you realize... Now what? Everyone remembers to unpack the kitchen, almost nobody remembers to update every address that needs changing.
To make your move a little easier, here's the checklist we share with clients relocating to Tacoma and anywhere else in Washington.
1. USPS Mail Forwarding
Set up mail forwarding immediately. Even if you've updated everyone you can think of, you'll be surprised how many pieces of mail still arrive at your old address months later.
2. Update Your Washington Driver's License
Washington requires residents to update their address after moving. While you're at it, don't forget your vehicle registration too. They're separate updates and one does not automatically update the other.
3. Update Financial Accounts
Change your address with:
Banks
Credit cards
Investment accounts
Mortgage companies
Auto loans
4. Insurance Companies
Update:
Auto insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Umbrella policies
You may even qualify for additional homeowner discounts.
5. Employer Information
Don't forget:
Payroll
Human Resources
Retirement accounts
Stock purchase plans
6. Medical Providers
Update your address with:
Primary care doctor
Dentist
Specialists
Pharmacy
Vision provider
7. Shopping & Subscriptions
This is the one everyone forgets.
Update:
Amazon
Target
PayPal
Venmo
Etsy
Chewy
Meal subscriptions
8. Pet Information
If you're moving to Tacoma with pets, remember to update:
Veterinary records
Microchip registration
Pet insurance
Welcome to Tacoma
Moving is stressful enough without missing an important piece of mail or wondering why your replacement credit card never arrived. Save this checklist, work through it over a few evenings and give yourself permission to enjoy your new city.
If you're relocating to Tacoma and still have questions about neighborhoods, schools, restaurants or what life is actually like here, I'd love to help. As someone who grew up in Tacoma, helping people feel at home here is one of my favorite parts of my job
