Moving to a new home is exciting, but it also comes with a long list of practical tasks. One of the most important is making sure your mail follows you. Whether you’re moving permanently or temporarily, missing bills, government letters, or important documents can cause unnecessary stress. Fortunately, Canada Post makes it easy to forward your mail to your new address. Here’s how to make sure nothing gets lost along the way.

Set up mail forwarding with Canada Post

The simplest way to ensure your mail reaches you after a move is to use Canada Post’s Mail Forwarding service. You can set it up online or at any post office. The service redirects mail sent to your old address to your new one for a set period—usually four or twelve months, depending on your needs.

You’ll need to provide proof of identity and your old and new addresses. It’s best to set up mail forwarding at least five business days before your move, so the service starts on time. You can even choose a start date that matches your moving day.

Mail forwarding covers most types of mail, including letters and parcels, but some items—like unaddressed advertising mail—may not be included. If you regularly receive newspapers or magazines, contact the publishers directly to update your address.

Update your address with key organizations

Mail forwarding is a great safety net, but it’s still important to update your address directly with the organizations that send you mail. This ensures your information stays current and avoids delays once your forwarding period ends. Start with these:

• Government agencies – Update your address with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Elections Canada, and your provincial health authority.
• Financial institutions – Notify your bank, credit card companies, and insurance providers.
• Employers and professional associations – Make sure pay stubs, tax forms, and membership information reach you.
• Utilities and service providers – Contact your phone, internet, and energy companies.
• Subscriptions and memberships – Update your address for magazines, streaming services, and loyalty programs.
• Healthcare providers – Let your doctor, dentist, and pharmacy know where to reach you.

Making a checklist of everyone who sends you mail can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t miss anyone.

Don’t forget your digital mail

Many Canadians now receive bills and notices electronically. When you move, take a few minutes to review your online accounts and make sure your contact details—especially your email and phone number—are up to date. This includes online banking, government portals like My Service Canada Account, and any e-billing services you use.

If you’re changing your internet provider or email address, remember to update your contact information everywhere you use that email.

Temporary moves and seasonal addresses

If you’re moving temporarily—for example, for school, work, or a seasonal stay—you can still use Canada Post’s Mail Forwarding service. You can choose how long you want the service to last and even have mail forwarded to an address outside Canada. When you return, simply set up another forwarding order to have your mail sent back.

Keep an eye on your old address

Even with mail forwarding in place, it’s wise to check your old mailbox for a short time after you move, if possible. If you’ve sold your home or ended a lease, you can leave a friendly note for the new occupants asking them to let you know if any mail arrives in your name. A small gesture like that can prevent important items from going missing.

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A smooth move starts with good planning

Making sure your mail follows you is about more than just letters—it’s about starting your new chapter without unnecessary hassles. By setting up mail forwarding, updating your address with key organizations, and keeping your digital information current, you can focus on settling into your new home and enjoying your new surroundings.

A little preparation goes a long way toward a stress-free move—and that includes your mail.