Joint Base Lewis-McChord
KEY CONTACTS
JBLM Housing Division
Housing Services Office
2008 A North Third Street
Joint Base Lewis-McChord WA 98433
PH: (253) 967-3581
Liberty Military Housing
(On-base Housing)
5128 Pendleton Ave.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433
PH: (360) 858-6097
School Liaison Office
2140 Liggett Avenue, Room 400,
Joint Base Lewis-McChord , WA 98433
PH: (253) 967-7195
Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.
Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time
About Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Modern-day Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) began as a training encampment in 1902 but was officially named Camp Lewis in 1917 after the famed discoverer Meriwether Lewis (of the Lewis and Clark Expedition). Camp Lewis evolved into Fort Lewis in 1927. Later, with WWII looming, the Air Force took over a nearby airfield and renamed it McChord Air Field. In 2010, the two bases were combined as a cost-saving measure, and the installation is currently known as Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). It is home to the I Corps, 62nd and 446th Airlift Wings, 7th Infantry Division, 1st Special Forces Group, 75th Ranger Regiment, 66th Theater Aviation Command, and Madigan Army Medical Center (to name a few). Today, it is one of the largest and most modern installations in the U.S.
JBLM is a coveted posting in military circles. Nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, JBLM is also convenient to the metropolitan hubs of Olympia, Tacoma, and Seattle. The views are epic, with Mt. Rainier overlooking the area. Big-city living, quiet inlet refuges, or wide-open prairies are among your options when choosing where to reside. No matter
where you choose, you’ll never be too far from everyday needs and even luxury shopping. The coffee scene here is like none other; the culture is laid-back, outdoorsy, and active.
We should probably take a moment to talk about the weather. It rains here—a lot. The rains start in October and continue, often without reprieve, through the spring. Annual rain totals aren’t much higher than in the southeastern U.S., but it’s a constant drizzle that can seem unrelenting as opposed to sporadic deluges. The rainfall does equate to a beautiful, lush, green landscape and heightens one’s appreciation for the sunshine when it does reappear. The summers are mild, and there are a plethora of natural wonders and outdoor recreation opportunities to take advantage of.
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Nearby Neighborhoods
DuPont
About
This small yet growing town was initially set up as a trading post in 1833, then later purchased in 1906 by the DuPont company to support its employees and their families. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the only former “company town” still preserving its history. DuPont has a “Mayberry” feel because of the idyllic community, family-friendly amenities, and tight-knit residents. The neighborhood is located just 5 minutes from JBLM, arguably giving it the best commute in the area. It’s also only 15 minutes north of Olympia and 20 minutes south of Tacoma.
Neighbors
DuPont is populated predominantly by military families because of its proximity to JBLM. You’ll also find locals who have lived there for generations. Residents are very active, partly because it’s largely military but also because of the culture and environment of northwestern Washington. Although DuPont is often referred to as the “off-post of on-post housing,” several large companies (including Amazon, Kimberly Clark, and Regalo, the baby gate company) draw civilian residents, and the area is also attractive to retirees.
Neighborhood Feel 
Nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find stunning views and abundant opportunities for outdoor activities. When it’s not raining, kids play in front yards, neighbors converse on porches, dogs are walked, and runners hit the trails -- thirty-two miles of trails crisscrossing the city, to be more exact! Homes are spacious and relatively new (the 1990s and more contemporary), and the area exudes small-town charm. Wooded areas border the Palisade area of the neighborhood, and homes have slightly larger yards compared to the Hoffman Hillside, where the houses have tiny lots.
Neighborhood Info | DuPont
Points of Interest
- Tolmie State Park
- Nisqually National Wildlife Sanctuary
- Puget Sound
- Sequalitchew Creek and Beach
- Eagles Pride Golf Course and the Home Course
Big Plus
- The commute from DuPont to JBLM can’t be beaten. Living elsewhere and dealing with the heavy congestion of I-5 can be pretty challenging.
- Expanding businesses and new ones are driving growth, widening shopping, dining, and hotel availability.
- You are right in the middle of several national parks and natural wonders!
- This area offers an on-post community feeling without living on post.
- Be sure to check out the incredible trail system that people travel in from other areas to utilize.
School Scoop
- Public schools in Dupont are part of Steilacoom Historical School District No. 1. One of the highest-rated schools in Dupont is Chloe Clark Elementary School.
Highlighted Areas
- Palisade Village
- Northwest Landing
Things to Consider
- While DuPont offers smaller-scale shopping options, you may need to head to nearby Lakewood, Steilacoom, and Olympia for big-box shopping like Home Depot, Costco, Safeway, etc.
- Neighborhoods are thick and have low-speed limits, so the deeper back you go, the longer it will take you to get in and out. It could add as much as 15 minutes, but getting on base is a piece of cake from there.
- The yards are small, and the neighbors are very close (in proximity and community). The homes don’t vary much in the form of architecture, which prompts the “cookie-cutter” moniker.
- Homes here move fast and often by word of mouth. We recommend that you stalk the market and be positioned to move quickly! Working with an experienced real estate agent can be of tremendous value in this market.
Lacey
About
The city of Lacey is technically a suburb of Olympia, but its proximity to JBLM and beautiful surroundings make it an attractive choice for military members and their families. Located on Puget Sound and at the western edge of the Cascade Mountains, the views in Lacey are incredible, and outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant. Lakes, saltwater, forested parks, breathtaking views of Mt. Ranier, and golf courses provide a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience.
Neighbors
A healthy military population resides alongside government workers, professionals, and executives. Active, outdoorsy, and dog-loving singles and families abound in Lacey. The area is rich in culture and has a whole community events calendar filled with summer concerts, jazz festivals, and open-air markets.
Neighborhood Feel
Neighborhoods are established (most are from the 1970s and onward) with several newer homes scattered about. Lacey is considered a coastal community and is bordered by two inlets, and with that comes pricier homes and more affluent residents. A coveted trail system and the active community make this a great location if you like to explore the great outdoors.
Neighborhood Info | Lacey
Points of Interest
- Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
- Regional Athletic Complex – 100-acre sports and outdoor recreation facility
- Tolmie State Park
Big Plus
- Feel free to bring Fido along on your adventures! Lacey is considered super pet friendly and boasts a five-acre off-leash dog park.
- Freshwater lakes, saltwater beaches, parks, and scenery are abundant here.
- This area is convenient to Olympia and allows easy access to I-5 for JBLM and even Seattle.
- There is a popular military treatment facility called the South Sound Clinic in Lacey that serves Olympia and Lacey and is much closer than driving onto post to the hospital clinic.
Things to Consider
- Commuting on I-5 can be nightmarish and, most times, unavoidable. North Lacey is a great area, and the commute to JBLM is much more reasonable, being closer to post. There are back road alternatives around Lacey, however, and are worth investigating.
- While many military families choose to live in Lacey, they are less concentrated here. Some love that, and some don’t. You may need to make a more concerted effort to connect with other families in the service.
School Scoop
- Public schools in Lacey are part of North Thurston Public Schools. One of the highest-rated schools in Lacey is Aspire Middle School.
Highlighted Areas
- Horizon Point
- Meridian
- North Lace
Lakewood
About
Incorporated in 1996, Lakewood is located just outside JBLM and is considered the base’s host community. It boasts several lakes, parks, and golf courses in keeping with the emphasis on outdoor recreation that is common in the Pacific Northwest. Lakewood offers affordable housing and a very short commute to JBLM and, for these reasons, is attractive to many military families. Amenities like shopping and dining are in plentiful supply, and there’s a fantastic farmers’ market in the summer! The gate to McChord Air Base is directly adjacent to Lakewood, and I-5 runs through town, giving excellent access to Tacoma, Olympia, and even Seattle.
Neighbors
You’ll find an abundance of military residents—young singles and families—residing in Lakewood.
Neighborhood Feel
Homes here tend to be on the smaller side and a bit more dated, mainly having been built in the 1960 to 1990 timeframe. There are pockets of nice houses (even grand lakefront mansions).
Neighborhood Info | Lakewood
Points of Interest
- American Lake Park
- Historic Lakewold Gardens
- Fort Steilacoom Park
- Thornewood Castle
Big Plus
- Lakewood Towne Center can fulfill your shop, restaurant, and entertainment wants and needs.
- As the name suggests, Lakewood is home to several lakes, and on-water recreation is a favorite pastime.
- Homes are affordable but will most likely be smaller and need TLC.
Things to Consider
- Hit-or-miss areas are prevalent, and it is not recommended to rent/buy sight unseen in this area. Working with an experienced real estate agent can be of tremendous value in this market.
- Homes can be less than cared for, and some areas are particularly run-down. If you find a home in good repair, consider its surroundings for the long-term outlook on your investment.
Highlighted Areas
- Gravelly Lake Drive
- Oakbrook
School Scoop
- The public schools in Lakewood belong to Clover Park School District. One of the highest-rated schools is Hudtloff Middle School.
- When deciding to purchase or rent in this district, be sure to interview the schools. Any student zoned to a Title I school (several in this district, including its highest-rated school, Hudtloff Middle School) has the right to attend a higher-performing school. Title I schools have been granted supplemental funds by the government based on a high number or high percentage of low-income students in attendance to help bridge the achievement gap.
Olympia
About
The area is located at the tip of Budd Inlet and was a favored gathering site for salmon and shellfish. The indigenous tribes of the Pacific Northwest, known as the Coastal Salish tribes, inhabited the area and referred to the peninsula of Olympia as “Cheetwoot” or “the black bear place.” The Settlers gave the name Olympia in 1850 after the view of the majestic Olympic Mountains nearby, and the city was later incorporated in 1859. It became a popular site for maritime commerce on Puget Sound, and the town was built up around the waterfront.
Though technically a mid-sized city, the capital of Washington is known for its small-town feel. Its picturesque, well-kept downtown is along the waterfront, and most of the area is walkable. You’ll find an eclectic dining and shopping scene and an active arts community here. Evergreen State College, a public liberal arts school, is here and feeds a robust music and entertainment niche. Well-funded schools, a stable job market, and educated residents are all contributing factors that make Olympia a desirable locale. Government activity drives most of the growth and “liveability” factors. Even the Capitol Building is an architectural prize and tourist attraction.
Neighbors
A diverse mix of Washingtonians calls Olympia home. You’ll find a healthy assortment of students, politicians, professionals, artists, military—you name it!
Neighborhood Feel
Olympia is relatively quiet for a capital city. Forty parks surround the area; most homes are nestled among the trees. Amenities are abundant, and the people are diverse.
Neighborhood Info | Olympia
Points of Interest
- Children’s Museum
- South Sound Wine Trail
- Waterfront / Percival Landing
- Farmers Market
- Olympia Flight Museum
- Black Lake
Big Plus
- Shops, restaurants, entertainment, and other amenities are convenient and range from eclectic/ independent shops to the more prominent name brands (Trader Joe’s, Costco). There’s also a fantastic mall in Olympia.
- Olympia offers clean city living with a Pacific Northwest eco-friendly flair.
- Parks, outdoor activities, golf, markets, and water-based activities abound.
- Access to well-funded schools is one of the perks of living in a state capital.
- An excellent MTF called the South Sound Clinic in Lacey serves Olympia and Lacey and is much closer
than driving onto the post to the hospital clinic.
Things to Consider
- Your money probably won’t go quite as far here, as home prices and the cost of living are a bit higher. The views, accessible amenities, schools, and culture are all worth it for some.
- The commute can be long, and traveling on I-5 is unpredictable.
- Traditional neighborhoods with craftsman-style homes are available, yet pocketed and tricky to find. Newer homes are more abundant.
School Scoop
- Public schools in Olympia are in Olympia School District. One of the highest-rated schools is Jefferson Middle School.
- Olympia High School is a desirable choice for many, and most families with older children are drawn to this area for the schools, sports, and extracurricular activities.
Highlighted Areas
- Tumwater
- SE Olympia
- Cooper Point Road
- Carlyon
Puyallup
About
Puyallup (pronounced “pew-AL-up”) was named for the native Puyallup Tribe that occupied the valley, and the name means “generous people.” Today, the moniker still fits as the inhabitants of this suburban town are friendly, gracious, and community-centered. Puyallup is rapidly growing in size and also in popularity among military families. It’s roughly 20 minutes from JBLM, and you don’t need to traverse I-5!
Neighbors
Engaging in outdoor recreation and enjoying nature is fundamental to life in Puyallup, demonstrated by its robust city parks, dog park, and outdoor community events and markets. The population here is a diverse mix of military and civilians, with the army commuting to JBLM and most civilians commuting to Tacoma.
Neighborhood Feel
There are historic homes in the older areas downtown, but most newcomers focus on the freshly planned communities under development.
Neighborhood Info | Puyallup
The area is expanding rapidly, providing abundant options in personalized new builds, more land, and scenic backdrops.
Points of Interest
- Washington State Fair
- Daffodil Festival
- Pioneer Park
- Sunrise Village Shopping Center
- South Hill Mall
- Antique District
- Farmers’ Market
Big Plus
- This area offers a slower-paced suburban lifestyle within reasonable proximity to the bigger cities.
- Puyallup is considered to be super family-friendly and has highly-rated schools.
- Though it’s farther away from JBLM than some other areas, avoiding I-5 makes for a more consistent and scenic commute.
Things to Consider
- If you need to be close to the city, this may not be the best option. Some consider Puyallup pretty far out, but the scenic commute and slower pace are attractive to others.
School Scoop
- Public schools in Puyallup belong to Puyallup School District. One of the best schools is Woodland Elementary School.
Highlighted Areas
- South Hill
- Puyallup Valley
Steilacoom
About
Steilacoom (pronounced “STILL-a-cum”) is a picturesque coastal city roughly 10 minutes from JBLM, making it very attractive to military families. Rich in history, culture, and community spirit, this quaint town is a tranquil refuge for families and retirees. Steilacoom is Washington’s oldest city and has several sites on the National Historic Register. If you’re looking for a “small town” with a view, Steilacoom is for you.
The area has a history dating back to the Steilacoom Tribe of indigenous people. When the settlers came, the area boomed as a lumber transport hub to meet the voracious demand for building materials from San Francisco. Tacoma and Seattle soon superseded the shipping capabilities of Steilacoom, and the city embraced a slower, more humble existence. Today, the area is a haven for families, retirees, and those looking to live near the big cities yet who also value a slower pace.
Neighbors
Steilacoom is home to some of the area’s most affluent residents, dual-income families, and higher-ranking military officers. Annual events like the July 4th Celebration and the Salmon Bake on Sunnyside Beach are just two examples of how the residents feed the community spirit.
Neighborhood Feel
There are a variety of homes to choose from in Steilacoom. Home values are higher here as you’re paying for the stunning views of the Sound. Historic homes and older craftsmans are abundant, as well as high-end master-planned communities. Neighborhoods boast impressive parks, trails, and outdoor spaces.
Neighborhood Info | Steilacoom
Points of Interest
- Chamber Bay Golf Course
- Sunnyside Beach
- Steilacoom Historical Museum
- Anderson Island Ferry
Big Plus
- Steilacoom boasts a fantastic park system with sweeping views of the Sound.
- Pet lovers flock to the area’s Fort Steilacoom Dog Park.
- This area offers a tight-knit community steeped in history and culture.
- Residents enjoy a unique Pacific Northwest experience.
- From here, you’re very close to JBLM and shopping and dining.
Things to Consider
- This is an expensive area. It’s not unusual for new-build neighborhoods to start at $450,000. Tack on extra zeros the closer you get to the water.
- There are local shops and restaurants in town, but you will have to drive to nearby Lakewood or Tacoma for most
shopping.
Highlighted Areas
- Steilacoom isn’t divided into subdivisions, and there are too many great streets to list. Keep in mind that if you can find a house.
School Scoop
- Public schools in Steilacoom are part of Steilacoom Historical School District No. 1. One of the highest-rated schools is Saltar’s Point Elementary.
Tacoma
About
In the 1800s, Tacoma took on the nickname “City of Destiny” when it beat Seattle to become the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad. The rail access and a bustling port solidified the blue-collared and diverse population that still exists today. Tacoma is a mid-sized urban port city located in Puget Sound and is a central maritime shipping hub. This industrial city has experienced ebbs and flows of prosperity over the years that mirror other major American manufacturing epicenters. Recent downtown revitalization efforts have helped to bring back the city's cultural offerings and draw more residents and tourists in.
Neighbors
Young professionals, singles, and younger military tend to show interest in Tacoma. Families tend to settle in the suburbs and outskirts to the north and east. Families often focus on areas outside the city for more space and school considerations, but younger couples and singles enjoy a larger city's amenities and social pace.
Neighborhood Feel
You name it, condos, apartments, townhomes, and single family homes are available in Tacoma. Nautical, historic neighborhoods are found nearer the water and in pockets throughout Northeast Tacoma. Newer developments and buildings are becoming more widely available and offer fantastic amenities. Most of the area is walkable to restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
Neighborhood Info | Tacoma
Points of Interest
- Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
- Theater District/Museum District
- Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
- Farmers’ Market
- Dock Street Marina
Big Plus
- Tacoma has excellent shopping options, including a mall and other big-brand stores and grocers.
- Proximity to I-5 is great for a quick trip to Seattle.
- For a city, Tacoma is relatively affordable.
Things to Consider
- Tacoma is an industrial city and has seen periods of economic stress. Some areas will be hit or miss, and we recommend not buying or renting sight unseen. Working with an experienced real estate agent can be of tremendous value in this market.
- The commute to JBLM is only 11 miles, but the traffic on I-5 going south is a serious consideration and is typically very congested. On top of JBLM commuters, you also have the usual city traffic to contend with getting in and out of Tacoma.
Highlighted Areas
- Northeast Tacoma
- Point Defiance
- Ruston
School Scoop
- Public schools in Tacoma are part of Tacoma Public Schools. One of the highest-rated schools in Tacoma is Lowell Elementary.
- While several of the schools in the northeastern edge of this district rate in the “high” range, the district as a whole tends not to be rated as highly. Be sure to evaluate the whole picture and interview the schools when deciding to purchase or rent in this district. Any student zoned to a Title I school (there are several in this district) has the right to attend a higher-performing school within the district. Title I schools are schools that have been granted supplemental funds by the government based on a high number or high percentage of low-income students in attendance to help bridge the achievement gap.
Yelm
About
If you’re looking for country living, look no further. This beautiful expanse of prairie lies in the shadow of Mt. Rainier and has been a crucial crossroads for generations of inhabitants. The indigenous people named the area “Shelm,” or “land of dancing spirits,” from the sparkle of heat waves undulating above the prairie in the heat. They traversed the prairie via a junction of trails crossing it, and later, fur trappers used the same roads. Even more recently, the Northern Pacific Railroad crossed through the prairie. Residences and businesses sprang up along the railroad, and the town of Yelm still resembles that frontier beginning.
Neighbors
Still small but growing, Yelm is becoming more popular with military families looking for a small town or even a “country” living experience. Prices are affordable, and the commute is scenic. You’re likely to find a mix of blue-collar types here, which reflects the area’s roots.
Neighborhood Feel
Yelm has a small-town feel while still being close to the big cities and JBLM. Communities are tightly knit, and families are welcomed. You have more opportunity to be situated on some land and backed up to the woods. Mt. Rainier epically rises up and gives the illusion of being in your own backyard!
Neighborhood Info | Yelm
Points of Interest
- Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
- Prairie Line Trail
- Yelm-Tanino Trail
- Chehalis Western Trial
- Pioneer Farm Museum & Ohop Indian Village
Big Plus
- Scenic commutes on back roads offer a welcome break from the congestion of I-5.
- This area is convenient to both Olympia and Lacey.
- Yelm is family-friendly and boasts sought-after schools as well as more affordable houses.
Things to Consider
- Yelm is much farther out, and even though the distance is greater, the drive is easy and the time spent in the car
can be comparable to the closer suburbs.
Highlighted Areas
- Tahoma
- Nisqually Pines
- Tahoma Terra
School Scoop
- Public schools in Yelm belong to Yelm Community Schools. One of the highest-rated schools is Prairie Elementary.
Looking at relocating?
Enter your information below and we will reach out to help the process.
7 Reasons You Should Consider Buying a Home
1. TAX ADVANTAGES
To encourage homeownership, the IRS has provided many tax breaks for owning a home. Credits may be available for specific home improvements, such as using clean energy or for qualified first-time home buyers. The way most homeowners see those advantages is through income tax itemization and deductions like mortgage interest and real estate taxes.
2. STABALIZE MONTHLY HOME COSTS
Owning your own house is one of the safest bets on stabilizing your monthly home costs. There’s no worry of rent getting increased significantly after each year of living in someone else’s home. Additionally, when you answer to yourself, there is no worry of landlord changes or unexpected lease termination.
3. HOUSE HACKING
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
4. Increased Privacy
Generally speaking, house hacking is a smart strategy that involves renting out a portion of your primary residence as a means of generating income to offset your own living expenses. Think turning your finished basement or mother-in-law quarters into an AirBnB! Or consider purchasing a multi-unit duplex or triplex: live on one side and rent out the other! If your home making money while you’re living in it doesn’t sound like your thing, there’s always renting it out after you PCS as an income generating investment property.
5. Pets Are Welcome!
For those who choose to rent instead of buying, it can be extremely difficult to find rentals who allow for your
four-legged, furry friends. Landlords often require hefty pet deposits or place heavy restrictions on the number of pets and breeds they allow—if they will even allow pets. When considering quality of life, including beloved pets and the indoor and outdoor space available to them matters. Having the flexibility to include ALL members of your family as a homeowner is priceless!
6. Pride of Ownership
One of the greatest benefits of owning your own home is the pride of ownership that comes along with it. Not only are homeowners more inclined to take good care of their investment with routine maintenance and cleaning, but also they are free to make design choices ranging from hanging artwork on the walls, to paint colors, to customization of closets, electronics, and more. As military families who relocate frequently, having your home reflect who you really are feels important.
7. Safe and Stable Long Term Investment + Forced Savings
Owning a home has historically been one of the safest, lowest risk financial investments that tends to have long-term stability and success. As your home value appreciates and your mortgage balance decreases, what’s left is growing equity with an eventual paid off home. Making a monthly house payment is akin to setting aside a specific amount each month into a savings account—it’s a little difficult to access in the moment, but over time it can build into something significant in the form of equity.
FIVE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU IN YOUR RELOCATION PROCESS
Your PCS is underway!
The home buying and moving transition process has begun. Now what? If it feels like there are a million things to do, don’t fret because you don’t have to do them all yourself. During the relocation process, there are many service providers that can assist you in making your move a smooth one.
Consider these five resources to help you in the process
1. MOVING COMPANIES
Sure, the military offers transportation and relocation services, but many service members decide to coordinate the transfer of household goods themselves. Not only can you often earn money on the difference between moving costs and weight allowances, but you can be assured that you have more control over your belongings. Services that moving companies offer can range from delivery of boxes and pods for the “you-pack” model all the way to full-service logistics companies that will do all of the packing, loading, driving, and unpacking for you.
2. STORAGE
Whether you need to store your household goods for a few weeks until you close on your home or you decide that you have more stuff than square footage, storage companies abound. Sizes, conditions, and contracts vary widely so be sure to do your homework before you commit. Particularly in climates with extreme cold, heat, or humidity, it is important to consider using only climate-controlled storage to ensure the protection of your furniture and temporarily unused items.
3. TEMPORARY HOUSING
It is not uncommon for there to be a short gap of time during a military move between when you arrive at your new duty station and your new home being available to inhabit. No longer are hotels the only option for sticking out a few days or weeks during the wait. Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO) and Airbnb are great options to make you feel more at home while you wait for your home. In fact, why not take advantage of seeing your new city through the eyes of a tourist? Find a location near new local attractions and dining and enjoy a few days of getting to know the lay of the land.
4. USPS/IRS
Once you get settled in at your new home, it’s important that you alert agencies that will make sure your current and up-to-date address is on file. The United States Postal Service (USPS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are two of the most important and by doing so, any important mail or documents in your name should be forwarded or sent along to your new address. It’s also a good idea to notify banks, credit card companies, and other debt collectors of a change of address. These days nearly all of these transactions can be handled online.
5. DISCARD & DONATE SERVICES
No matter how much you purge, toss, organize, minimize, or donate before you pack up the moving truck, it never fails that after you get unpacked on the other side there seems to be more stuff to declutter. Discard and donate services can help with this. Many are a phone call away and will happily come to your residence for a pickup. Others are structured where you simply drop off at a store. A lot of these services are charitable organizations and will offer you documentation for your own taxes based on your donation. It’s a win-win: you downsize by donating, and someone else benefits from your use of your items.
