How do you do it???

[tinksdad]

The house I am living in is nothing more than a roof and walls to store my accumulated crap!! My goal when I retire in a couple (about 4) years is to become a full time TD'er. I know that I can get involved with the"Camp Ground Host" programs around the country for a place to stay. My question is how do you handle the "necessities'.. permanent address for drivers license, direct deposit, etc.

I have obtained numerous parcels around the mid-south and deep south (even one on the big island of Hawaii) through delinquent tax auctions; but to the best of my knowledge you can not use a vacant lot as your permanent address. I could build a "Tumbleweed" style home on one of them if necessary; but don't see the need if not required. Since two of my upcoming pensions are state issued, I also have to consider sates that have reciprocal agreements with "exempt"' status.

How do you become a gypsy traveler and still handle the necessities??

[madjack]

...when I was a construction gypsy, moving from town to town, I would goto the local post office and talk with the postmaster or counter clerk and establish a "general delivery" with them...my address would then be...
My Name
General Delivery
Any Town, State/zip
...another way togo, if you needed a more "permanent" address would be to go to a business that specializes in such things...then thru many "UPS" stores(and others) and possibly thru FedExKinkos, you can establish a box or suite number and they will handle your mail for you...holding it for call or forwarding to your current general delivery address...these types of places are to be found in almost all towns of any size I have ever looked for them in......
madjack

[tinksdad]

Thanks MJ for the starting point.

It's amazing how much we think we are actually tied to one location. I have some what found that not to be true. I am still using my cell phone # that I used 5 years ago before I moved to the south. I don't have a land line and cell phones don't care where you are. That is one tie to a permanent location severed. Now as long as I can find access to Wi-Fi for my laptop for e-mail, I am one step closer to dropping off the grid. The main reason for establishing a "place of residence" is so that I can continue to participate in what are commonly called "free elections" (that as well as where my CCW is valid).

[Miriam C.]

Thanks MJ for the starting point.

It's amazing how much we think we are actually tied to one location. I have some what found that not to be true. I am still using my cell phone # that I used 5 years ago before I moved to the south. I don't have a land line and cell phones don't care where you are. That is one tie to a permanent location severed. Now as long as I can find access to Wi-Fi for my laptop for e-mail, I am one step closer to dropping off the grid. The main reason for establishing a "place of residence" is so that I can continue to participate in what are commonly called "free elections" (that as well as where my CCW is valid).

A lot of states have residency requirements to remain a resident. You might look that up or talk to your city clerk. Find a state that has the minimal in state requirements or buy property...

Try this: http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0781452.html

[tk]

When I was working for an RV manufacturer, I met more than one retired or semi-retired individuals or couples who were gypsies. One that I recall made a small income writing reviews of campgrounds, festivals, etc. for a camping magazine. (I think it was an e-zine.) Try searching on-line for camping magazines, camping groups, retirees and camping, etc. I bet you'll find resources that can directly answer your questions.

Best,
Tom

[Arne]

there is a state out west that allows you to register your vehicles by mail, and do all you want to do.... but I can't recall which one. Could me montana... if I find out I'll post it.

[Roly Nelson]

When I first started full-time RVing in our motorhome, I went into the DNV in Oregon to get register my rig and get an OR drivers license. All they needed was a letter that was sent to me anywhere in the state of OR, so I had my So Calif daughter send me a letter to my son's address in OR. It worked for me for 6 years, saved me bucks in license fees, sales taxes and no smog requirements. Good luck on your efforts.
Roly, ex-fulltimer and present TDer.

[S. Heisley]

I once met a very nice man who lived in his camper the year 'round. Anything that had to have a permanent mailing address was sent to his daughter's home. The two of them would check in with each other from time to time and deal with any mail that came then.

[Steve_Cox]

I know a fellow that owns a mail forwarding service. They will scan the outside of the envelopes and send you an email, you then get to decide which ones to save or throw away. Then you can choose to either have the mail opened and scanned for email, or sent general delivery to a post office where you will be. They are nice people and have been in this business for quite a long time. I've known many people that have used them in the past when traveling about in boats.
Questions about vehicle registration and absentee voting are addressed in the web side linked above.

[Mark McD]

When we camped alot as kids my parents were members of the Good Samaritan club. If i remember correctly they had mail fowarding service.