Moving is a busy, exciting and often confusing time. It is also the perfect time for a criminal to grab your personal information and make your life very difficult.
Here are some tips to make sure that you don't become a victim of fraud before, during, or after your move.
Before you move
Make a list of all bills, magazines or other regular mail that you receive at your home.
Notify all of your service providers of your impending move. Ensure they know how long you will be there and on what day you will no longer be responsible for billing to your address.
Notify Canada Post of your impending change of address.
Notify your bank or credit card company if you receive your statements by mail. Specifically request that they NOT send you any cards until you have completed your move and you are satisfied that your mail will not go astray.
Notify your employer if you receive pay stubs or cheques by mail.
When you move
If you don't already own one - invest in a shredder to dispose of old documents that you will not be taking with you.
Dispose of personal financial garbage yourself rather than leaving it behind.
When moving personal financial documents - either transport them yourself or make sure that they are properly protected.
After you move
Be vigilant! Check your list of bills and ensure you have not missed any. If you have, call immediately to confirm if they have sent a bill to your old address.
Check all incoming mail and ensure your new address is properly reflected. Undoubtedly, you will have forgotten to change your address on a few items - correct this as soon as you discover it.
If you discover items on your credit card that are not yours - report it to your card company or bank immediately.
If you become a victim of fraud - report it to Police.