How to Cancel a Change of Address with USPS in 2024
Over 43 million Americans go through the stress of moving each year according to U.S. Census data. Getting mail forwarded properly is crucial, but address issues can slip through the cracks.
If you need to cancel a change of address order with USPS – whether you decided not to move, submitted incorrect details, or need delivery reverted – follow this guide to make sure no mail gets lost.
Key Reasons to Cancel a Change of Address
Before getting into the step-by-step process, here are the most common reasons for cancellation:
1. Move Cancelled
Even the best laid plans can go awry. If your move gets postponed or cancelled altogether:
- Cancel mail forwarding right away
- Notify contacts/businesses of address change reversal
Taking quick action minimizes disruptions.
2. Input Error
With tension high during moves, it‘s easy to fat-finger a new address or postal code. Some input errors that warrant cancellation:
- Incorrect street number
- Misspelled street name
- Wrong city, state, or ZIP code details
Catching these early prevents misrouted mail.
3. Temporary Stay Extended
Sometimes a short-term housing situation turns more permanent. If so:
- Cancel the temporary mailbox forwarding
- Submit a permanent change of address instead
- Ensure the right mail redirection going forward
How To Cancel According to USPS Change Type
The cancellation process differs slightly depending on whether you submitted a temporary or permanent change.
Here is a comparison:
| Change Type | Temporary | Permanent |
| Duration | Max 12 months | > 12 months |
| Cancellation Allowed? | Yes | No |
| Cancellation Method | Online or in-person | Must submit new COA |
So for temporary changes, cancellation is straightforward. Those who filed permanent changes cannot cancel but can revert back by submitting a new change of address order.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cancelling Online
You can conveniently cancel online as long as:
- Initial change submitted through USPS website
- Within first 30 days
- Have USPS.com account
Here is exactly how to cancel your address change electronically:
- Access USPS change of address portal
- Click “Manage Pending and Previous Changes"
- Select your address order under “Active” tab
- Choose “Cancel” and confirm
Once cancelled, USPS notes they cannot undo cancellation so be 100 percent certain first.
Alternative: Cancelling by Mail/In-Person
If outside the 30 day eCOA window, visit your local post office ASAP to cancel instead. Bring the following:
- Photo ID
- Change of address confirmation code (if available)
Be prepared to complete Form 3546 to cancel processing. This signed paperwork reverts everything back immediately.
Without the confirmation code, postmasters can pull up address orders under your name and current address to assist.
Avoid Future Issues with Quick Cancellation
Based on USPS policy and procedures, I recommend:
- Acting within 72 hours whenever possible
- Tracking down change of address confirmation details to have on hand
- Moving or cancelling any open mail forwards affected
Following these tips lets you redirect mail correctly after cancellations to avoid headaches.
Stay proactive and you can handle address changes smoothly even when needs shift.
