If you are moving, you should notify the proper authorities of your new address in time. This will help you avoid problems with mail delivery, the municipality and the tax authorities, for example. In this article we explain where, when and to whom you should pass on your change of address so that you can avoid problems.
How should I report my move to the municipality?
Notifying the municipality of a change of address is mandatory, so it is good to do this correctly and on time. You can pass on a change of address in different ways:
- Online through your municipality’s website using DigiD.
- In person at City Hall with a valid ID.
- By mail with a removal form and a copy of your ID.
The options may vary from one municipality to another. Therefore, always consult your municipality’s website in advance. Also make sure that you always have a valid ID available during a move, otherwise it can cause problems when communicating the change of address.
When should you report your move?
Notifying the municipality of a move must be done in time to avoid administrative problems. Here it is important that you pass on your change of address from 4 weeks before the move date until 5 days after the move date. Do you fail to do this within this time? Then you may risk a fine.
Where else should you declare your move?
In addition to notifying the municipality of your change of address, there are other agencies that often require personal notification of your new address:
- Relationships: such as family, friends or your employer.
- Suppliers: such as energy and water.
- Financial matters: such as the bank, insurer and notary.
- Medical matters: such as the family doctor or dentist.
- Memberships: such as internet provider and associations.
- Subscriptions: such as newspapers, magazines and lotteries.
With large organizations such as the Tax Office or health insurance companies, the change of address is automatically transmitted by the municipality. If necessary, check on the municipality’s site where they pass on the change.
Frequently asked questions about communicating a change of address
Do I need to notify the IRS of my move?
If you move to a new address within the Netherlands, the Tax Office receives your new address through the municipality. Always check that your details are correct on the Tax Office website. Are you moving abroad? Then you must always deregister from the municipality and report this to the Tax Office.
Can someone else report my move?
Yes, this can be arranged by a family member or partner with a written authorization.
What if my municipality makes a mistake in my change of address?
Contact your municipality immediately to correct the error.
What happens if I don’t communicate my move?
If you do not communicate your change of address, you will remain registered at your previous address. As a result, you risk fines from the municipality, problems with benefits and allowances, mail continuing to be received at your old address, and incorrect taxes and fees.
