For those who are newly moving to Columbus, I have organized the essential tasks to take care of in the first few months.

Moving to a new city in the United States is not just about moving your belongings; there are more administrative tasks to handle than you might think. By making a list in advance and checking things off one by one, you can reduce unnecessary stress during the settling-in process. This checklist is based on Columbus, Ohio, but many of the items are applicable across the United States.

The first thing to do is to obtain an Ohio driver's license. If you are moving from another state, you need to exchange your out-of-state license for an Ohio license at the Ohio BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles). The principle is to make this exchange within 30 days of moving to Ohio, and the required documents include proof of residency (utility bill, bank statement, etc.), identification, and your existing state license. You will also need your SSN (Social Security Number), and making an appointment on the BMV website can help reduce wait times. Vehicle registration should also be quickly updated to Ohio after your move.

Administrative tasks related to changing your address should also be handled promptly. You need to apply for mail forwarding on the USPS website and notify major institutions such as your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, IRS, and your workplace HR of your new address. If you have children, you should quickly handle school registration. Registration in the school district requires proof of address, and you will need to submit immunization records as well. It's also a good idea to obtain transcripts and academic records from the previous school in advance.

Regarding housing, you need to set up utility contracts. The main electricity provider in Columbus is AEP Ohio, and the primary gas supplier is Columbia Gas of Ohio. Internet options include Spectrum, AT&T, and WOW!, and coverage may vary by area, so it's best to check which providers service your new address before moving. Depending on your living situation, you may need to use city services or contract with a private company for trash collection. Most rental apartments include this, but single-family homes may require a separate contract.

It's also important to quickly familiarize yourself with health insurance and the medical environment. If you have workplace insurance, it's advisable to identify nearby in-network hospitals and a primary care physician after your move. Columbus has several large healthcare systems, including OhioHealth, Mount Carmel, and Nationwide Children's Hospital. If you want to find doctors who speak Korean or hospitals that provide translation services, reaching out to the Korean community can help you get information quickly. Setting up a bank account, car insurance, and home insurance (renter's or homeowner's) are also essential tasks to take care of right after your move.