The Quintessential Moving to Texas Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Rhythm Energy on Wednesday, August 16, 2023
Blog Hero - 11 Moving Tips & Tricks

Texas is undeniably one of the hottest destinations for people seeking a fresh start. With a thriving economy, diverse culture, and a wealth of opportunities, it's no wonder that many are flocking to the Lone Star State. Moving can be a daunting task, but you should not be afraid. Our step-by-step guide is here to make the process easier and more manageable.

How Do You Become A Resident Of Texas?

Becoming a resident of Texas is an essential step toward making the state your new home. Establishing residency enables numerous benefits, including obtaining a driver's license, registering your vehicle, and accessing local perks and discounts. As a Texas resident, you can enjoy exclusive privileges like discounted access to in-state tuition rates at colleges and universities. Additionally, residing in Texas provides the opportunity to take advantage of the state's deregulated energy market and apply for Rhythm Energy’s sustainable pricing plans. Before completing your moving checklist, you should see how to become a resident of Texas. Here are some of the options:

  • Rent or buy a home.

  • Secure employment in Texas.

  • Register to vote in the state.

  • Start a business in Texas.

  • Enroll your children in a Texas primary or secondary school.

In addition to this, you will need to spend more than 6 months or 183 days within a 12-month period. Once those initial steps are completed, you can proceed as a permanent resident, applying for a driver's license and voter registration.

Moving to Texas – Checklist

Moving out of state can be a daunting and time-consuming task, requiring careful organization and detailed planning. From packing and cleaning to dealing with moving companies and energy providers, the moving out-of-state checklist seems endless. For small business owners, the list grows even longer. However, if you focus solely on your personal checklist, things become more manageable. There are many moving tricks and tips to help you save time, including our comprehensive guide focusing on specific time periods.

Two Months Before Moving

Each moving states checklist should begin with the important task of finishing agreements in your current state. Begin by giving notice to your landlord if you're renting, following the timeline outlined in your lease agreement. Next, find a moving company within your budget to secure their services. Stock up on moving boxes and supplies for affordable options.

One of the most important things when moving to a different state is to ensure that your insurance coverage remains unaffected by the state change. Also, if you have children, notifying current schools about their departure and gathering any necessary paperwork is another thing to be done before your move.

As you prepare for your move to Texas, it's an excellent time to educate yourself about renewable energy options. Texas has a deregulated energy market, allowing residents to choose the provider.

One Month Before Moving

One month before your move, handling utility transfers or setups is crucial to ensure a seamless transition. You should do all necessary steps to transfer or set up services such as water, trash pick-up, electricity, and gas. The next thing on your moving to a different state checklist should be a truck rental. Make a reservation on time to avoid unnecessary delays and last-minute complications. If you're moving with your car, ensure it passes the service first. As mentioned, Texas has a deregulated electricity market, and now it's a great time to choose and set up one of Rhythm Energy's plans.

At the end of the month, you can organize a garage sale to get rid of the stuff you don't need anymore. Slowly, start packing larger items that are not immediately needed.

One Week Before Moving

As you enter the final week before your move, there are crucial tasks to complete. Start by changing your mailing address, taking advantage of the free first-year mail forwarding service provided by USPS. Confirm your moving service or truck reservation to ensure a smooth transition. If needed, make childcare arrangements for move-in day, and enroll your children in their new schools, ensuring everything is in order. Lastly, consider getting your home or apartment professionally cleaned.

The last few days are usually reserved for packing essentials and using the rest of the perishable foods at home.

After moving to Texas Once you've successfully moved to Texas, there are several important tasks to complete:

  • Update tax information: It's important to update your tax information in a timely manner and inform IRS about your new address. Among the many fascinating facts about Texas, one standout feature is the absence of state income tax.

  • Refresh information in the driver's license: This action requires you to visit a local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to update your driver's license with your new address. This should be done within 90 days after you move.

  • Complete car registration and get car insurance: You need to register your vehicle in Texas within the first 30 days of moving and update your insurance policy.

  • Register to vote: As a permanent Texas citizen, you can now register to vote and complete the registration online.

  • Send updates to your financial institutions: Notify your bank and other financial institutions about your relocation to Texas and your new address.

What do I need when moving to Texas?

Texas is a vibrant state with numerous advantages. It offers a lower cost of living compared to many other states, affordable housing options, and a booming job market. For this reason, moving from California to Texas is increasingly attractive, especially among young people. However, once you move, several important tasks you should prioritize to settle into your new life smoothly, such as updating your personal information, registering and insuring your vehicle, exploring benefits and perks available to Texas residents, and applying for a Rhythm Energy plan.

Is Texas easy to move to?

Moving to Texas can be a smooth process if you are well-organized and prepared. Luckily, our blog provides valuable tips and guidance to help you prepare and stay organized throughout the moving process.

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