How to Use COAA USPS Gov for Smooth Address Changes

When moving to a new address, updating your mailing address is a crucial task.

The COAA USPS Gov system, which stands for Change of Address Application, is a vital tool provided by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to streamline this process.

Whether your move is permanent or temporary, understanding how COAA works ensures that your mail reaches your new location without any issues.

Submitting a COA request is essential for managing your mail and package delivery during a move.

The USPS offers a seamless and secure process, allowing you to submit your COA online or at any of the 33,000 local Post Office locations.

USPS prioritizes security by implementing enhanced identity verification methods, safeguarding customer information, and addressing global identity theft concerns. Having personally used this service, I can attest to its simplicity and effectiveness.

USPS continually enhances its security protocols, ensuring a smooth transition for your mail and packages during a move.

What is COAA USPS Gov?

COAA USPS Gov is an online service provided by USPS for processing Change of Address (COA) requests. This service enables individuals, families, and businesses to securely update their mailing address during a move.

By submitting a Change of Address request through the COAA system via https://moversguide.usps.com/, USPS ensures that your mail is forwarded from your old address to your new one, making it convenient to update your address from anywhere, at any time.

coaa.usps.gov

The coaa.usps.gov website is the official website for the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) Contract Postal Unit (CPU) Operations.

It serves as a central hub, providing information and resources for businesses and organizations interested in establishing a CPU within their facility.

The site offers detailed guidance on the application process, outlining the requirements and responsibilities of operating a CPU.

Additionally, it includes essential forms, manuals, and other helpful tools designed to support both current and potential operators in their roles.

Technically, the domain ‘coaa.usps.gov’ is hosted on an IP address located in Ashburn, Virginia, which is known for its robust data center infrastructure.

The server’s location plays a crucial role in ensuring quick access and low latency for users across the United States.

The domain has been active for several years, reflecting its established presence and reliability in supporting USPS operations.

This technical setup helps maintain the site’s performance and security, crucial for the sensitive nature of the information it provides.

According to data from ipaddress.com, the hosting provider’s infrastructure supports the site’s stability and availability, ensuring that it remains a dependable resource for USPS CPU operators and applicants.

Is the site safe, legit, and trustworthy?

Currently, there is not enough detailed information available to definitively determine the safety and trustworthiness of the site. However, being a subdomain of the official USPS website, it can generally be considered as trustworthy, assuming it adheres to the security standards typical of government websites.

Is the site safe for children?

There is no specific information available to confirm whether the site is explicitly safe for children. Given that it’s a USPS-operated site focused on Contract Postal Unit (CPU) operations, it is likely intended for professional or business use rather than for children.

What is the IP address?

The IP address for coaa.usps.gov is 152.195.33.23 for IPv4, and 2606:2800:21f:3e9e:5a:9b8f:bddbfor IPv6​ .

Where are the server locations?

The servers for this domain are located in the United States, specifically in Ashburn, Virginia, which is known for its extensive data center infrastructure.

What webserver software is used?

The website uses Apache web server software, which is known for its reliability learn more.

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Types of Change of Address Requests

When submitting a Change of Address (COA) request, you have the flexibility to choose between temporary or permanent options, whether you’re an individual, family, or business.

These options can be selected either online or by filling out a PS Form 3575 acquired from your local Post Office. It’s important to note that the PS Form 3575 can no longer be printed from your home computer.

Choosing Temporary or Permanent

Temporary COA forwarding has specific time limits. The minimum forwarding period is 15 days, while the maximum period is 364 days.

For those opting for seasonal forwarding, mail is forwarded to a temporary address for the chosen duration, starting from the listed start date.

Once the end date arrives, delivery will resume to the original address provided in your COA request.

If you need to extend your temporary COA, a new request can be filed, allowing an extension of up to an additional 179 days.

The total forwarding time for a temporary move cannot exceed 12 months. If you return to your original address for at least 45 days, the forwarding limit resets, enabling you to submit a new Temporary COA order.

If you’re unsure of your return date, estimate as accurately as possible. Should your plans change while you’re away, you can contact the local Post Office for your original address and adjust the date to stop forwarding your mail.

If you’ve already returned, simply cancel your temporary COA to have mail delivery resume as usual.

Essential Steps To Changing Your Address

To ensure that your mail is properly forwarded to your new address, it’s crucial to submit a Change of Address with the USPS.

To make this process faster and easier, consider notifying everyone who sends you mail about your new address and the date of your move at least two weeks prior.

When updating your address on bills and statements, it’s important to ensure all address elements are complete and accurate. Here’s what you need to include:

• House Number: Ensure it’s correctly listed.
• Street Name: Write the full street name.
• Directional Indicators: Include any relevant N, E, S, or W directions.
• Apartment/Suite/Room Number: Specify any applicable unit details.
• City: Verify the correct city name.
• State: Use the proper state abbreviation.
• ZIP Code: Double-check that the ZIP Code is accurate.

Including these details ensures your mail is delivered correctly.

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How to Submit a Change of Address Request

Submitting a change of address request through the COAA USPS Gov system is straightforward:

1. Visit the USPS Website: Go to the official USPS website and navigate to the Change of Address section.
2. Choose the Type of Move: Select whether your move is permanent or temporary.
3. Fill Out the Form: Enter your old address, new address, and the date you want the mail forwarding to begin. You’ll also need to provide an email address for confirmation.
4. Identity Verification: To prevent fraud, USPS requires you to verify your identity. This can usually be done online by paying a small fee (typically $1.10) using a credit or debit card.
   • A mobile phone number verification may be required, with a One-Time-Passcode or verification link sent to your phone.
   • The billing address on the credit card must match either the old or the new address used in the COA request.
   • If online identity verification is unsuccessful, you will be directed to a Post Office to verify your identity in person.
5. Confirmation: After submitting your request, you’ll receive a confirmation email. USPS will also send a Move Validation Letter (MVL) to your old address and a Welcome Kit to your new address.

Two Ways to Submit Your COA Request

There are two ways to change your address with the USPS:

1. How to Submit a Change of Address Online

• Visit: Go to USPS Movers Guide.
• Security Measures: Multi-factor verification is required, which may include:
  • Mobile phone verification with a One-Time-Passcode.
  • A $1.10 identity verification fee charged to a credit card (prepaid and gift cards not accepted).
• Email Requirement: Necessary for submitting the COA online.
• Military Addresses: Use an email ending in .gov, .mil, or .edu.
• International Moves: Requires an in-person visit to a Post Office.

2. How to Submit a Change of Address in Person

If you prefer or if your online identity verification was not successful, you can complete your Change of Address in person at a Post Office.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Request a change of address form from a Retail clerk at a Post Office.
• Bring one of the following photo identifications that is current and unexpired:
  • State issued driver’s license or non-driver’s license identification card (name and address must match the old or new address on your request)
  • Uniformed Services Identification Card (requires a secondary form of identification)
  • U.S. Passport (requires a secondary form of identification)

Required Secondary Forms of Identification

It is recommended to bring a secondary form of identification with you, such as:

After successfully verifying your identity, your Change of Address request will be processed, ensuring your mail is properly forwarded to your new address.

USPS COA Guidelines for Authorized Agents: Minors, Individuals, and Businesses

When handling a Change of Address for a minor child or on behalf of someone else, Authorized Agents must follow specific protocols to ensure the process is properly conducted:

• The Authorized Agent is required to submit the Change of Address (PS Form 3575) in person and must present their own valid identification.
• They must provide the necessary documents to demonstrate authorization—such as a birth certificate or legal document for a minor child, or a Power of Attorney for individuals unable to act for themselves.
• In the case of deceased persons, Executor documents are required.
• For businesses filing a hardcopy COA, the Postal Service requires a letter on company letterhead, signed by someone in a leadership role, stating that the bearer is authorized to perform the Change of Address for the business.

How to Submit PS Form 3575 In-Person or Online

If you prefer to handle your Change of Address through traditional methods, the PS Form 3575 is readily available at your local Post Office within the Mover’s Guide packet.

This packet not only includes the form but also provides instructions for completing it, along with coupons offering discounts on related moving services.

The Change of Address Order is a hardcopy paper form that can be easily filled out to submit your change of address request.

However, if you submit a PS Form 3575 without going through the proper identity verification at a post office, you will receive a letter in the mail directing you to finalize your identity validation either online or in-person at a post office location.

For those who prefer to complete their COA request online, the Mover’s Guide Online offers special offers that can be printed or sent as a text message to your mobile device.

Using a Third Address for COA Validation

The online change of address application provides an option to submit a COA using a “third address” for validation.

This is particularly useful when the move effective date is at least 7 days in the future. This time frame ensures that the Move Validation Letter can be delivered to your old address, confirming the legitimacy of the change and helping to prevent any potential issues with your mail forwarding.

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Disputing a Change of Address Order

If you receive a Change of Address (COA) confirmation from USPS but haven’t requested one, you can dispute it to prevent any unauthorized changes to your address.

1. Visit the USPS Dispute Portal: Go to Manage My Move.
2. File a Dispute: Under “Get Started,” select “Received a Change-of-Address confirmation but not moving?” and follow the prompts to file a dispute online.
3. Use Your COA Key: This key is printed on the USPS Change of Address Validation Letter. Enter it, along with the ZIP Code™ from the letter, to initiate the dispute.

This process alerts USPS to investigate the unauthorized COA request, ensuring your address remains secure.

Tips To Ensure Security for Your Online Change of Address

Change of Address Online Security

The USPS takes the security of your personal information seriously. To protect customer data and prevent fraudulent COA requests, several advanced techniques are employed.

Key Security Measures

• Secure Server and Encryption Technology are used to safeguard online Change of Address (COA) requests.
• A $1.10 fee is charged for identity validation through Address Verification.
• Credit or debit card information, including your credit card number, debit card number, and billing address, is electronically verified with the issuing bank.

Alternatives to Online Submission

• If you prefer not to use your credit card, you can fill out a PS Form 3575 at your local Post Office.
• Be aware of third-party websites that may charge excessive fees (up to $40.00 or more) to submit your change of address. These sites are not affiliated with the Postal Service.

Avoiding Third-Party Sites

• The Postal Service no longer accepts submissions from third-party businesses due to updated authentication processes.
• If you accidentally file on a non-USPS site, contact your financial institution for resolution.
• Always use USPS.com for all change of address activities to ensure the best service and avoid unnecessary charges.

Notify Key Contacts

While USPS will forward your mail, it’s still important to notify key contacts (banks, utilities, subscriptions) of your new address.

Monitor Mail Forwarding

Keep an eye on your mail to ensure that it’s being forwarded correctly. If there are issues, contact USPS promptly.

Temporary COA

If you’re not sure when you’ll return to your original address, you can extend your temporary COA to ensure continuous mail forwarding.

Key Takeaways

1. COA Request Timeline: You can submit a Change of Address (COA) request 90 days before or up to 30 days after your move date.
2. Submission Methods: COA requests can be made online or in person at a Post Office™. Online submissions require identity verification via a $1.10 fee.
3. Security Measures: USPS employs multi-factor authentication, including mobile verification and credit card validation, to enhance security and prevent fraud.
4. Temporary vs. Permanent COA: You can choose between temporary and permanent address changes, with specific forwarding time limits.
5. Authorized Agents: Authorized agents must present documentation to submit a COA on behalf of others.

By using the COAA USPS Gov system, you’re taking a simple yet significant step in making your move smoother and less stressful. Handle this task early in your moving process to avoid any last-minute complications.

FAQs on Change of Address (COA) for USPS

How long does it take for the USPS Change of Address to take effect?

When you submit a Change of Address request, it typically takes 7 to 10 business days for the forwarding of your mail to begin. It’s recommended to submit your request at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure a smooth transition.

Can I change my address online for free?

No, changing your address online with the USPS involves a $1.10 identity validation fee. This fee is required to verify your identity using your credit or debit card information.

How do I know if my Change of Address was successful?

After submitting your Change of Address request, the USPS will send a Move Validation Letter to your old address and a confirmation email if submitted online. This process ensures that your request has been processed correctly.

Do I need to establish delivery before submitting a Change of Address for new construction?

Yes, you must contact your local Post Office to establish delivery service for your new construction address before submitting a Change of Address (COA) request.

This ensures that your mail is properly delivered to your new home once it’s ready.

How do I File a COA for an International Address?

Filing a Change of Address (COA) for an international move cannot be done online. You must visit a U.S. Post Office to complete PS Form 3575 and undergo identity verification before leaving the country.

If you forget, you’ll need to notify contacts of your new address or authorize someone to file the COA on your behalf.

For moving from another country to the U.S., you’ll need to coordinate with the postal service of that country.

What happens if I don’t file a Change of Address request?

If you move without submitting a Change of Address (COA) request, your mail carrier will gather your accumulated mail and leave a notice for pickup at your local Post Office.

The Post Office will hold your mail for up to 10 days. After that, most mail will be sent back to the sender, and any undeliverable items that cannot be forwarded or returned may be discarded.

Filing a COA helps prevent these issues and ensures your mail reaches your new address

What should I do if I submitted a COA on a third-party website?

If you mistakenly used a third-party website to submit your Change of Address request, you should contact your financial institution immediately for resolution, as these sites are not affiliated with the USPS and may charge higher fees.

Can I change my address for someone else?

Yes, you can submit a Change of Address request on behalf of someone else, such as a family member or business, but you must provide the necessary documentation to verify your authority, such as a Power of Attorney or Executor documents.