How to stop charity junk mail

The never-ending battle against charity junk mail! Here are some steps to help you reduce or stop receiving unwanted charity solicitations:

  1. Register with the National Do Not Mail List: The National Do Not Mail List is a free service that allows you to register your name and address to stop receiving unwanted mail. You can register online or by calling (888) 5OPT-OUT (567-8688).
  2. Contact the Direct Marketing Association (DMA): The DMA is a trade association that represents the direct marketing industry. You can register your name and address with the DMA's Mail Preference Service to reduce unwanted mail. The service is free for 5 years, and you can renew it after that.
  3. Check with the charity: If you're receiving mail from a specific charity, you can contact them directly to ask to be removed from their mailing list. You can usually find their contact information on the mailing label or on their website.
  4. Use the USPS's "Opt-Out" service: The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a service called "Opt-Out" that allows you to request that charities stop sending you mail. You can fill out a form on the USPS website or call (800) 275-8777 to request the service.
  5. Use a mail-blocking service: Services like 41pounds.org and Catalog Choice allow you to opt-out of receiving mail from specific charities or categories of charities.
  6. Be proactive: When you receive a solicitation from a charity, take a few minutes to respond and ask to be removed from their mailing list. You can usually find a response card or a website address to visit.
  7. Consider a "Do Not Call" list: While not directly related to mail, registering your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry can help reduce telemarketing calls, which may also be related to charity solicitations.
  8. Monitor your credit report: Charities may obtain your contact information from credit reporting agencies. You can request a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com and review it for any errors or unauthorized listings.
  9. Report unwanted mail: If you're receiving mail from a charity that you didn't request, you can report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state's Attorney General's office.
  10. Consider a mail-blocking service for your email: If you're receiving unwanted emails from charities, you can use services like Unroll.me or Bulk Unsubscribe to help manage your email subscriptions.

Remember that it's essential to be proactive and take steps to manage your contact information to reduce unwanted charity solicitations.