Junk Mail Reduction

Step 1:  Prevention

The first step is prevention.  Check the bottom of any form you fill out and mail--there is often a box you can check if you do not wish to be added to their mailing list or have your name sold to other companies.

Visit the following sites to see how to reduce unwanted mail/calls:

    http://donotcall.gov (to block unwanted sales calls)

    www.junkbusters.com (to learn about laws and approaches)

For instance, these marketing practices are illegal per the FCC:

    Recorded-voice telemarketing calls

    Unsolicited telemarketing calls before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.

    Unsolicited advertisements by FAX (see www.junkfaxes.org )

Step 2:  Call Credit Reporting Agencies

Recent changes to the Fair Credit Reporting Act allow you, as a consumer, to have your name removed from mailing lists that are often used for credit and insurance offers.  Toll-free numbers are operated by the three major credit bureaus.  You need to call only ONE of these numbers--the credit bureaus share the lists.

		1-800-353-0809
		1-888-567-8688
		1-800-680-7293

When you call, you will be asked a series of questions so the credit bureau can properly identify you (for example, you will be asked for your Social Security number) and remove your name from mailing lists sold to other companies.  This information is kept confidential.

Step 3:  Write to Mailing List Providers

The Direct Marketing Association (DMA) provides the Mail Preference Service List to direct marketing companies.  This is a list of people who do not want to receive unsolicited mail.  Sending a postcard to the following address will put your name on the Mail Preference Service List for five years.  Be sure to include your name, any alternative names that may be on mailing lists (for example:  Ann Smith, Ann W. Smith, Anne Smith, A.W. Smith, etc.) as well as the names and alternative names of others who receive mail at your address, and your mailing address, including ZIP code. 

	DIRECT MARKETING ASSOCIATION
	MAIL PREFERENCE SERVICE
	PO BOX 9008
	FARMINGDALE NY  11735-9008

The DMA also provides a Telephone Preference Service List that will remove your name from some of the largest telemarketing databases.  To subscribe to this service list, mail a separate postcard with your name, any alternative names, mailing address including ZIP code, and your telephone number to:

	DIRECT MARKETING ASSOCIATION
	TELEPHONE PREFERENCE SERVICE
	PO BOX 9014
	FARMINGDALE NY  11735-9014

Finally, send yet another postcard to Advo, a company that will remove your name from the Mailbox Values mailing list.  Again, please remember to include your name, any additional names or spellings, and mailing address including ZIP code.

	ADVO / MAILBOX VALUES
	LIST SERVICE DEPARTMENT
	239 W SERVICE ROAD
	HARTFORD CT  06120-1205

Step 4:  Contact Companies Directly

Usually, the best way to get rid of junk mail is to stop it as soon as it starts.  Ask the companies whose catalogs and magazines you do want to please NOT sell your name or address to other mailing lists.

When you do receive an unwanted catalog call the customer service telephone number and request your name be removed from their mailing list, or send them an e-mail if the catalog lists a website or e-mail address.

When unwanted mail arrives with a postage-paid return envelope, use it to return the mailing label, along with a written request to remove your name from their mailing lists.

Finally, any time you fill out an application, warranty, survey, etc., check the box that states you prefer not to receive any further direct mail or telephone offers.