Keeping everyone in the know

There are a million and one things to think about when you’re moving home. Letting people know you’re moving is time-consuming but it’s a vital part of the moving process. Make it a bit easier with our checklist of people and companies to notify about your impending move.

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Friends and family: There’s no need to buy expensive “change of address” cards. Most people have access to the Internet so send an email, or you can find a good range of “change of address” e-cards online.

The Post Office: Remember to get your post re-directed to your new address. You can do this by downloading a form from the Post Office website. Do this in advance as it can take up to 10 days to set up. There is a charge for re-directing your post.

Bank: Let your bank know your change of address and think about transferring your account to a branch closer to your new home. And don’t forget any items that are held by your bank for safe-keeping.

Standing Orders and Direct Debits: Give your new address to companies with which you have a hire purchase agreement or a loan.

Credit cards / store cards: Complete the change of address section of your statement when you return it with your payment. And remember to also notify any card protection insurers you have.

Loyalty cards: These may be bottom of your list but tell loyalty cards issuers such as Boots, Tesco or Sainsbury’s of your change of address. Many loyalty schemes let you to do this online.

Schools: You’ll need to let your children’s schools know that you’re moving. Do be aware that your children might have to change schools if they move out of the catchment area.

Subscriptions to magazines: You’ll want your magazines to go to your new address.

Employers: Your employer will need to amend their records accordingly.

Energy suppliers: Contact existing electricity and gas suppliers and advise your new one when you will be moving into your new home. Give at least a 48 hours’ notice for your meters to be read. Electricity supply is very competitive.

Landline and broadband: Contact your suppliers and let them know your moving date. Moving home is also your chance to get a better deal.

Mobile phone: Let your mobile phone provider know your change of address.

Mail order /online shopping: Update your address with any companies you use regularly, particularly if you are ordering items that you want delivered to your new home imminently.

Council tax: Notify relevant authorities in both your current area and the area that you are moving to.

Inland Revenue: Notify your local tax office quoting your tax reference number and your National Insurance number you will find these on your pay slip, P60 or tax code notification.

National Insurance /DSS Benefits: Write to your local DSS office, giving your full name, date of birth and National Insurance number.

Pension: Let your local Post Office know about your change of address if appropriate, as well as any private pension scheme memberships you have. You may have to contact previous employers to do this.

TV licensing: Your television license only covers your current home so you'll need to transfer it to your new address.

Electoral Register: The Electoral Register is updated every month and you need to be included on it to vote. A form is available from the Electoral Commission's 'About my vote' website.

You can complete the form online, or download and send it to the Electoral Registration Office which is based at your local council.

Doctor/dentist: Advise your doctor and dentist that you are moving. Be aware that if you move out of their catchment area, you may need to find a new dentist or doctor.

Private medical insurers: Notify your insurers about your change of address.

Home insurers: In addition to notifying your buildings and contents insurance company that you’re moving, check that your current policy covers your possessions during the move. Find out if your change of address means a change in premium and make sure you have adequate buildings cover on your new home.

Other insurances: Don’t forget to notify other insurers such as car, pet, life, critical illness, etc.

Driving licence: Complete section 1 on your licence and return it to DVLC, Swansea, SA99 1BN.

Car breakdown services: Let them know your new address. This is especially important if home start is included as part of your cover.