Form 46: Notice of Address Change
Form 46 tells the BC Provincial Court registry and other parties that a party’s address for service has changed in an existing family-law case.
When a party’s address for service changes, Rule 175(4) requires the party to file Form 46 and serve it on every other party as soon as possible. Court notices and other documents may be delivered to the address for service even if it is not the party’s home.
What is an address for service?
An address for service is where a party receives court notices or documents from other parties. Rule 175(1) requires an address for service from every party who files an application or reply. It can be an address other than the person’s home address. The person must check all provided service channels regularly, including any email or fax number.
How to notify the court and others
- Locate the correct file number and the BC Provincial Court registry dealing with the family case.
- Complete current Form 46 with the correct party information and the new address for service, including service email or fax details where relevant.
- Check that you can reliably receive documents through every address or electronic channel you provide.
- File Form 46 with the registry as soon as possible after the address changes.
- Serve a copy on each other party. Keep a dated record of service and follow the relevant method under the rules or any court direction.
What if you live outside British Columbia?
Rule 175(5) says a party whose address for service is outside British Columbia must provide an email address for service. If you are worried about disclosing your home location, Rule 175 allows an address for service other than your home; consider appropriate safety and privacy options and seek advice about any protective orders or confidentiality directions.
Can the other party keep using your old details?
Without proper notice, other parties may continue to use the contact details on the court file. Completing only a change with your lawyer, employer or postal service is not a substitute for filing and serving Form 46. Ordinary service methods and deemed receipt rules are addressed by Rules 176 and 179, so keep your address for service current.
Practical example
A parent moves and no longer collects mail at the old service address. They complete Form 46 with a current, reliable address for service, file it at the registry and serve the other party. They also keep checking the email address listed for service while their matter remains active.
Common mistakes
- Notifying only the other party but not filing the required form with the court.
- Filing Form 46 but failing to serve it on every other party.
- Listing an inbox or postal address that is not monitored.
- Confusing an address for service with a requirement to disclose a home address.
Official sources
- BC government Form 46 (PDF)
- BC Provincial Court Family Rules — Rule 175
- BC government Provincial Court family forms library
Primary-source review: October 13, 2026. Limited to the form and stated procedural requirements, not a certification of every circumstance or future amendment.