For homeowners

The previous owner's mail

As you settle in, you'll almost certainly find mail addressed to the people who lived there before you. Handling it the right way from day one stops it for good.

What to do

Three steps, every time

1. Mark the envelopeWrite "Return to Sender, Not at this address" clearly on the front. Don't cover the original name or the return address.
2. Cross out the barcodeDraw a heavy line through the small black barcodes, usually near the bottom. Postal machines read them, and if they aren't crossed out, the letter can come right back to you.
3. Send it backPut it back in your mailbox with the flag up, hand it to your carrier, or drop it in a blue USPS box. No postage needed.

Why it matters

Don't just throw it away

Returning the mail updates the sender's records. When a bank, billing department or company gets your "Return to Sender" envelope, it's official notice that the person moved, so they flag the account and reach the old owner another way.

If you throw it away, the sender assumes it was delivered and keeps sending it to your address indefinitely.

Getting a lot of it?

Let your Georgia Move agent know. We'll reach out to the listing agent and ask them to remind the seller to set up mail forwarding with the post office. It's a quick, friendly fix, and the seller gets their important documents too.

Contact your agent →

While you're at it

Your own mail

  • Forward your old address with USPS so nothing gets lost during the move.
  • Sign up for Informed Delivery from USPS to see a preview of your mail each morning.
  • Watch for mail scams after closing, like offers to sell you a copy of your deed. Here's what to ignore →