National Change of Address - NCOA - FAQs
What is NCOA?
The NCOA compares the addresses in your database to over 160 million address changes. When a customer files a change of address with the Post Office, it goes into the NCOA database for 48 months. When an address on your list matches an entry in the NCOA database, the new address is provided. This ensures that your mailpiece reaches it's destination.
Benefits of Ncoa
- Help reduce the cost of maintaining a list.
- Reduce the cost of mailing.
- Increase the number of pieces that reach their destination.
- Reduce the time it takes for your mail to be delivered.
- In most cases, the NCOA is the most cost effective way to receive an address change.
Do I have to use ncoa?
Effective November 23, 2008, to qualify for automation rate for presort First-Class Mail and Standard Mail, the USPS states - “Each address and associate occupant name used on the mailpieces in a mailing must be updated within 95 days before the mailing date, with one of the USPS-approved methods...”
The service is required but also is a benefit to the mailer. With the NCOA, we make sure your dollars are being used in the most efficient way possible.
The service is required but also is a benefit to the mailer. With the NCOA, we make sure your dollars are being used in the most efficient way possible.
What happens after you run my list through ncoa?
After your database has been run through NCOA, CMS will provide you with a database of those customers that have moved or updated their address. The database will indicate the customer name, the updated address, and the date that the change was submitted.