Buying a house involves a number of stages, and the work does not stop once you have completed the purchase. At this point, your main concern will be getting into your new home and settling down. However, one important item to take care of before moving day, is letting friends, family, companies and government agencies know your new address.
Letting family and friends know your new address can be as simple as getting change of address cards made up and either handing them out or sending them via mail or email.
Using this checklist can ensure all parties are informed in the right manner and at the right time.
Ministry of Health
New homeowners should inform both the provincial or territorial health ministry you are moving by providing them your new contact information. There are forms you can easily download from the web to do this. Start here if you’re moving within BC.Canada Revenue Agency
New homeowners will need the following materials:- Social insurance number
- Partner’s social insurance number (where it applies)
- New address in full
- Date of the move
Once these materials have been gathered, you will need to choose your preferred method for informing the agency:
Online - Use the Canada Revenue Agency’s online service
Mail - Fill in Form RC325 and mail or fax to their local tax centre. Write a letter including all the details. A separate letter should be written for the partner. Mail or fax the signed letter to the local tax office
Phone - Call Canada Revenue Agency at 1-800-959-8281 and pass on all relevant details
Canada Post
The new homeowners can:- Go to the local post office and change the address at the counter
- Visit Canada Post’s website and follow the online instructions for changing your address
Ministry of Transportation
This is only necessary if you have vehicles registered under your name. You can advise them of your new address by visiting the Service Canada website and clicking the correct province or at the Province of BC website.Canada pension plan or old age security information
If relevant, it is important these institutions are notified in a timely manner, to ensure benefits are not lost. Service Canada website allows for Account holders to change their address information.Employment Insurance program
If applicable, it is important to change your address and avoid missing out on important benefits. It can be done through the Service Canada website once an account is set up and an Access code to get onto the site has been provided.Other government departments
Complete change of address for other licenses when appropriate, including:- Fishing license
- Hunting license
- Pilot permits
Lastly, consider other organizations that need to be informed in a professional, rather than social way. These include:
- Place of work
- Children’s schools or daycare
- Bank, credit cards and investment holders
- Library
- Cable/Internet/Phone Company
- Any other service providers where information may be sent to your address
It can be difficult to remember everyone that needs to be informed of the move, but it is important to do your due diligence in notifying all parties involved. If you’re ever unsure, speak with your real estate agent and they will be able to help guide you towards the best approach.
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