How to stop receiving charity mail

The never-ending stream of charity mail! Here are some steps to help you reduce or stop receiving charity mail:

  1. National Do Not Mail List: Register your name and address on the National Do Not Mail List (DNML) website. This is a free service that asks charities to remove your name from their mailing lists. Note that this list is not a guarantee, but it can help reduce the amount of charity mail you receive.
  2. Contact the charities directly: Look at the mailing label or the charity's website to find their contact information. Reach out to them and ask to be removed from their mailing list. Be polite and provide your name and address to help them locate your record.
  3. Opt-out online: Many charities offer online opt-out options. Look for a link on their website that says "Opt-out" or "Unsubscribe" and follow the instructions.
  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 submit a request online or by mail.
  5. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): If you're receiving unwanted mail from a charity that's violating the National Do Not Mail List or other laws, you can file a complaint with the FTC.
  6. Use a mail-blocking service: Services like Catalog Choice, DMAchoice, and 41pounds.org allow you to opt-out of receiving mail from specific charities or categories of charities.
  7. Check your local charity registry: Some states have their own charity registries that allow you to opt-out of receiving mail from charities registered in that state.
  8. Use a postal service filter: Some postal services, like the USPS, offer filters that can help reduce the amount of junk mail you receive, including charity mail.
  9. Consider a mail-blocking device: Devices like the "Junk Mail Blocker" or "MailGuard" can help block unwanted mail, including charity mail, from entering your mailbox.
  10. Keep your contact information up to date: Make sure your contact information is up to date with the charities you've already opted out of. This will help prevent them from updating their records and continuing to send you mail.

Remember that it may take some time to stop receiving charity mail completely, as charities often have outdated lists or may not comply with opt-out requests immediately. However, by following these steps, you can reduce the amount of charity mail you receive and help minimize the clutter in your mailbox.