You have sold your house, packed all your belongings, and are ready to move. Here is a list of institutions and people who should be notified.

• Family, Friends, and Neighbors

  Your neighborhood friends may be able to help you organize a party to say goodbye if you have made close friendships. Maybe you need help moving. It doesn't matter what. It is important to let them know in advance. Send a change in address card to relatives who you do not hear from during the holidays.

• Employer

  Even if you are just moving to another area, and your job hasn't changed with the move, your employer must keep your records current for tax documents as well as insurance paperwork.

• Postal Service

  You must tell the United States Postal Service that you want your mail to be sent to your new address. You will usually also receive a package of moving-related coupons.

• Utilities

  You can arrange to have the old ones removed and the new ones installed on the day of your move. It is not a good idea to cause service disruptions. You should schedule the switch for your electricity and gas, water, phone, cable, internet, garbage, and any other municipal services that you might need.

• DMV

  You will need to transfer your driver's license and update your vehicle registration and insurance if you move to another state. This can take anywhere from 10 to 30 days, depending on the new state. Even if you are just moving across town, they will still need your address. You can usually handle this online. Reissue of a driver's license with a new address is a common practice in most states. However, this option is optional.

• Government Agencies

  When you move, you should notify several government agencies. This includes the IRS as well as the Social Security Administration. Also, you will need to update your voter registration. Online forms are available.

• Financial Institutions

  Your new address is required for all bank accounts, brokerages, and credit card companies.

• Insurance Agencies

  Insurance agencies that offer homeowners, life, and health insurance policies should have your current address. This is also true for any other businesses or individuals you do business with (such as your family lawyer).

• Schools

  You must notify your school of your move, regardless of where you live. It may be necessary to register your children at a new school depending on how far you have moved and your school's boundaries. This should be notified to both the existing and new schools. You must also check in with the school at least two days before your child's start date.

• Subscriptions and Clubs

  All magazines and subscriptions must be up-to-date. Yes, the U.S. Postal Service should be notified and forward your mail.