Change-of-address records: what they show and where they fall short
When people move, many of them file a mail-forwarding request. Licensed change-of-address data derived from those filings is a strong early indicator that someone has left one address for another.
What it is good for
A recent move filing that points away from the declared address is a meaningful signal, especially when it lines up with other evidence such as utility changes.
It can also confirm a declared move, which helps resolve cases quickly in the subject's favour.
The gaps
Not everyone files a forwarding request, and some file temporary ones for travel or seasonal stays. Filings can also cover a whole household or just one person, which affects how they should be read.
Using it well
Treat change-of-address data as one input among several, note the filing date and type, and avoid drawing conclusions from it alone.
Consent-first, reproducible verification for your team.
