According to statistics from usatoday.com, 14% of Americans are inclined to moving from one state to another since this action offers an array of exciting new things — home, job, friends, environment, and opportunities. However, it also comes with new challenges, especially if it is your first time to move outside of your home state.
Well, do not fret because a little planning can help you waddle through these unfamiliar waters and the wonderful possibilities that moving promises. Below, we will discuss what you need to do before moving to a different state:
Remember the Basics
To start, ask yourself the following questions:
- What state are you moving to?
- Do you have a new job waiting for you there?
- Will your new employer give compensation for your moving expenses?
- Will the location suit your lifestyle?
Upon answering these, you can craft a moving strategy that enables you to adapt well.
Why the Move?
The most common reason people move is when they are searching for fresh opportunities and when they have acquired a new job that requires relocating. It can also be for educational purposes.
Create a plan depending on your motivation for moving. For example, if your move is for work purposes, this can mean that your employer will contribute to your moving expenses. Make sure you get all the necessary details of the reimbursement plan prior to moving. You don’t want to book a full-service move only to discover that your new boss only plans to pay for a rental truck.
As for moving for education purposes, you can try to look into scholarships or financial assistance plans that cover relocation expenses, especially if you’re acquiring a post-graduate degree.
Educate Yourself on Tax Implications
If you’re choosing a location before obtaining a job, be sure to know the tax laws of your new state. In addition, while you are deducting expenses on your federal tax return at tax time, keep in mind that you may have to file two separate state tax returns when you move out of state.
If you earned income in two different states during the economic year — unless you are moving to or from a state that does not collect individual income taxes, such as Texas, Nevada, or Washington — you will need to file a return in each state to cover the time you lived there.
Do Research on What Service Suits you
There are three popular ways to transport your stuff across state lines: truck rental companies, professional movers, and container services that provide and transport self-storage containers which you have to load or fill yourself. Each service has its own advantages, but prices can vary significantly.
Get the projected costs and be smart before signing a contract with a moving company, truck rental, or shipping agency. Acquire at least three moving cost quotations from different companies to ensure that you’ll get the best possible deal. Usually, these moving quotes are free so don’t hesitate to ask for one.
Get Insured
Of course, you don’t want to experience any hassle along the way, but undesirable things can happen unexpectedly when all your valuables are packed and contained in one place. Although moving companies provide insurance options to protect your belongings, it’s beneficial to understand the distinctions and conditions of each package. The U.S. Department of Transportation outlines the typical moving insurance options on its website.
Moving is exciting, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. With careful and diligent planning, you can make sure that your move will be a gratifying experience.