After You Relocate

These are things you'll want to do within the first week of moving to your new location:

• Locate police and fire stations as well as hospitals and gas stations near your home.

• Scout your new neighborhood for shopping areas. You may need furniture, tools, or housewares unexpectedly.

• Call the Department of Sanitation in your new town to find out which day the trash is collected. Also ask whether your new community has recycling programs.

• Seek out new service providers such as a bank, cleaners, veterinarian.

• Register to vote. Call your local board of elections for specific registration information. Ask them how to notify your previous voting district of your change of address.

• If you have moved into a different state, contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to exchange your driver's license.

• Call your Chamber of Commerce for helpful information on: schools, cable service, cultural events and community activities, Libraries and parks, and availability of emergency calling services, such as 911.

• Provide your new doctor and dentist with your medical history. You may need to request your file from your previous doctor/dentist.

• Transfer insurance policies to an agent in your new community. You may also wish to make a detailed list of your belongings, their value, and your coverage.

• Give your new home a good cleaning.

• Moving can be stressful. Watch for effects on family members and pets so you can give comfort and a helping hand.