haus-umziehen-checkliste-uk
haus-umziehen-checkliste-uk
haus-umziehen-checkliste-uk
Change of address after moving: How to avoid chaos and fines!
Moving is exciting enough – changing your address shouldn't be an additional stress factor. But which authorities, insurance companies, and businesses do you need to inform? And what deadlines need to be observed? To help you keep track and avoid any nasty surprises, we've put together a comprehensive checklist for you. Find out now how GoMovin can support you with your move: Contact us!
The topic short and concise
Moving is exciting enough – changing your address shouldn't be an additional stress factor. But which authorities, insurance companies, and businesses do you need to inform? And what deadlines need to be observed? To help you keep track and avoid any nasty surprises, we've put together a comprehensive checklist for you. Find out now how GoMovin can support you with your move: Contact us!
Moving is exciting enough – changing your address shouldn't be an additional stress factor. But which authorities, insurance companies, and businesses do you need to inform? And what deadlines need to be observed? To help you keep track and avoid any nasty surprises, we've put together a comprehensive checklist for you. Find out now how GoMovin can support you with your move: Contact us!
Moving is exciting enough – changing your address shouldn't be an additional stress factor. But which authorities, insurance companies, and businesses do you need to inform? And what deadlines need to be observed? To help you keep track and avoid any nasty surprises, we've put together a comprehensive checklist for you. Find out now how GoMovin can support you with your move: Contact us!
Moving house and need to change your address? We show you who to inform, what deadlines to meet, and how to avoid unnecessary stress and fines. Get informed now!
A move is an exciting time but also comes with many organisational tasks. One of the most important is the address change. Those who need to change their address should not put it off, as there are several deadlines to consider. Missing these can lead to unnecessary stress and even fines. At GoMovin, we understand the importance of a smooth move. That's why we show you which agencies you need to inform, what deadlines apply, and how to make the process efficient. With our expertise and comprehensive service, you can sit back and enjoy the fresh start. We support you throughout the entire process, from planning to execution, ensuring your address change proceeds smoothly. Learn how thoughtful planning and organisation can help you avoid chaos and make the most of your time.
The registration change of residence is a duty enshrined in the Federal Registration Act. Those who fail to register within the prescribed period risk a fine of up to 500 euros. The deadline for the registration change is generally two weeks after moving house. Therefore, it is advisable to arrange an appointment at the residents' registration office early on.
A missed address change can not only result in fines but also cause issues with post receipt. Important documents, bills, or notifications may not reach you. Insurance benefits may also be at risk if the insurer is not informed of the current address.
Change of Address: Focus on the Residents' Registration Office and Confirmation of Accommodation Provider
The registration office, often also called the citizens' office, is the first point of contact when moving house. Here, you must register your change of address. For the registration, you typically need your ID card or passport, as well as a landlord's certificate. This certificate confirms that you have indeed moved into the new flat.
Registering at the registration office
The registration at the registration office is an important step to officially change your address. The required documents usually include your ID card or passport and the landlord's certificate. The deadlines for registration vary depending on the municipality but are usually between one and two weeks after moving. Some offices offer the possibility to register online, which can significantly simplify the process.
The landlord's certificate is a central document for registration. It is issued by the landlord or owner of the flat and confirms that you live there. The certificate usually contains information about the landlord's name, the address of the flat, and the move-in date. Without this certificate, registration is often not possible. Landlords who do not issue or issue false certificates face heavy penalties.
It is advisable to arrange an appointment at the registration office early on, as waiting times are common. Some offices offer the possibility to book appointments online. The registration itself is usually free of charge, although fees may apply for issuing certificates.
Vehicle Registration Office and Tax Office: How to Successfully Change Your Address
Besides the residents' registration office, there are other important places that you need to notify about your address change. This includes the vehicle registration office if you own a car, and the tax office, especially if you are moving to a different location.
Address change at the vehicle registration office
If you own a vehicle, you must also inform the vehicle registration office of your address change. The deadline for this is usually shorter than for the residents' registration office and should be done promptly. For the address change, you will need your vehicle registration document (part I) and your ID card.
If you move within the same city or municipality, it is often sufficient to have the address changed on the registration document. However, if you move to another city or municipality, you may need to re-register your vehicle and apply for new license plates. Since 2015, you can usually keep your current license plate even if you move to a different registration district (source).
It is important to inform your car insurance about your new address, as insurance premiums may vary depending on the location. The vehicle tax is automatically adjusted by the registration authority, provided your bank details do not change.
Informing the tax office
The tax office only needs to be notified when you move to a different location. Inform your previously responsible tax office of your new address. It is important to provide your tax number to ensure that your data is correctly assigned.
Although it is not mandatory to inform the tax office about a move within the same location, it can still be beneficial to speed up communication. This ensures that all tax-relevant documents reach you.
Banks, insurance companies, and broadcasting fee: Making address changes easy
In addition to the authorities, there are other important institutions that need to be informed about your address change. These include banks, insurance companies, and the broadcast contribution (formerly GEZ).
Notifying banks and insurance companies
You should promptly inform your bank of your new address. If you are moving within the same branch, a simple notification is often sufficient. However, if you relocate to a different area, you may need to open a new account or change your account details.
Your insurance companies must also be informed of your address change. This is especially true for liability insurance, home contents insurance, and motor insurance. The insurance terms may vary depending on your location, so adjustments to the policies are necessary.
It is advisable to notify all insurance providers before moving to ensure there are no gaps in your insurance cover (Source).
Updating the broadcast contribution
The broadcast contribution (formerly GEZ) must also be informed of your address change. You can conveniently do this online. Have your contribution number ready.
If you are moving in with someone who already pays the broadcast contribution, you can deregister and provide your housemate's contribution number (Source).
Checklist for Changing Your Address: How to Stay Organized
A comprehensive checklist helps you stay organised with your address change and ensures no important entities are missed. At GoMovin, we've put together a practical checklist to guide you through the process step-by-step.
Before Moving
Create a list of all important institutions and companies that need to be informed about your address change. This includes:
Residents' Registration Office
Vehicle Registration Office
Banks
Insurance Companies
Tax Office
Employer
Broadcasting Licence Fee
Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
Internet and Telephone Providers
Clubs and Associations
Subscriptions (magazines, newspapers)
Set up a mail forwarding request with Deutsche Post. This ensures your mail is delivered to the correct address after the move. The forwarding request should be set up 2-3 weeks before the move.
Cancel old contracts for electricity, gas, water, internet, phone, and newspaper subscriptions. Be mindful of the notice periods.
After Moving
Re-register with the Residents' Registration Office within the stipulated period. Usually, this is two weeks after the move.
Inform all relevant entities about your address change using your address list.
Update your address in all online accounts and profiles, such as Amazon, eBay, and social media.
Special cases: dog owners and recipients of social benefits
In addition to the general aspects of changing your address, there are some special cases that require particular attention. These include dog owners and recipients of social benefits.
Dog Owners
If you own a dog, you need to register it with the local council and pay dog tax. Deadlines and fees vary depending on the municipality.
Also, inform Tasso so that your contact details are up-to-date in case your dog goes missing.
Recipients of Social Benefits
If you receive social benefits such as unemployment benefits, BAföG, or child allowance, you must inform the responsible authorities (Jobcenter, BAföG office, Family Benefits Office) about your move in a timely manner.
Failure to do so may result in benefit reductions. Provide the relevant authorities with proof of your relocation, such as the tenancy agreement or the landlord's confirmation.
Housing benefit recipients need to submit a new application as housing benefit is property-specific (Quelle).
Change of Address Abroad: What You Need to Consider
Moving abroad requires special preparations and formalities. There are also several points to consider when it comes to changing your address.
Deregistering with the Residents' Registration Office
If you are moving abroad permanently, you must deregister with the Residents' Registration Office. Deregistration should generally take place shortly before the move.
Inform all relevant agencies in Germany about your move abroad, such as banks, insurance companies, and subscriptions.
Mail Forwarding Request Abroad
A mail forwarding request with Deutsche Post to a foreign country is possible, but it comes with higher costs. Consider whether this is worthwhile for you.
Remember that you may have different registration obligations abroad. Make sure to find out in advance about the regulations in your destination country.
Legal Aspects: Federal Registration Act and Fines
The Federal Registration Act (BMG) forms the legal basis for the registration obligation in Germany. It regulates the rights and duties of citizens and authorities in connection with the re-registration of residence.
Registration obligation and deadlines
According to the Federal Registration Act, you are required to re-register at the residents' registration office within two weeks of moving. The deadline starts on the day you move into your new residence.
Fines may be imposed for breaches of the registration obligation. The amount of the fines depends on the severity of the breach and can be up to 500 euros (Source).
False residence
A false residence occurs when you register an address where you do not actually live. This is illegal and can be punished with substantial fines. Landlords who issue a courtesy certificate can also be fined up to 50,000 euros (Source).
Change of address made easy: Move stress-free with GoMovin
Changing your address after a move can be a stressful affair. However, with good planning and organisation, along with support from GoMovin, you can significantly simplify the process and avoid unnecessary hassle.
Early planning and organisation
Start planning your address change early. Create a checklist of all the important entities that need to be informed. Arrange appointments with the registration office and vehicle registration office to avoid waiting times.
Using online services
Take advantage of the online services offered by authorities and companies to change your address conveniently from home. Many banks and insurance companies provide the option to process your address change online.
GoMovin: Your partner for a stress-free move
At GoMovin, we support you in all steps of your move, from planning to execution. We assist you in organising your address change and ensure that you don’t forget any important entities. With our comprehensive service, you can sit back and enjoy the new beginning.
Moving is a big step. At GoMovin, we aim to make it as easy as possible for you. Use our expertise and comprehensive service to complete your address change stress-free. Contact us today for a personalised consultation and let’s plan your move together. Visit our contact page to learn more.
Further useful links
Agentur für Arbeit offers information on unemployment registration and address changes.
Rundfunkbeitrag provides information on address changes.
Bundesamt für Statistik (Destatis) provides statistics on population structure and movements.
FAQ
What is the deadline for registration at the residents' registration office?
The registration at the residents' registration office must generally be completed within two weeks of moving. Otherwise, fines may be imposed.
What documents do I need for registration?
For the registration, you typically need your identity card or passport and a confirmation of residence from the landlord.
Do I need to inform the tax office if I move within the same city?
It is not mandatory to inform the tax office if you move within the same city, but it can be beneficial to expedite communication.
What happens if I fail to notify the vehicle registration office of my address change?
If you fail to notify the vehicle registration office of your address change, fines may be imposed. The deadline for this is usually shorter than for the residents' registration office.
How do I notify the TV licence fee of my address change?
You can conveniently notify the TV licence fee (formerly GEZ) of your address change online. Have your account number ready for this.
What is a confirmation of residence and why do I need it?
The confirmation of residence is a document issued by the landlord confirming that you have moved into the property. You need it for the registration at the residents' registration office.
Do I have to inform my bank of my address change?
Yes, you should promptly inform your bank of your new address. If moving within the same branch, a simple notification is often sufficient.
What do I need to consider as a dog owner when changing my address?
As a dog owner, you must register your dog with the community and possibly pay dog tax. Also, inform the Tasso Centre of your address change.
