How to.stop.junk mail

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

  1. National Do Not Mail List: Register your name and address on the National Do Not Mail List, a free service provided by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA). This won't guarantee complete elimination, but it can help reduce the amount of junk mail you receive.
  2. Opt-out online: Many companies offer online opt-out options for their mailing lists. Look for a "Privacy" or "Opt-out" link on the company's website or email.
  3. Contact the sender: If you receive mail from a specific company or organization, you can contact them directly to request to be removed from their mailing list. Be prepared to provide your name and address.
  4. Use the USPS "Do Not Forward" service: If you're moving or don't want to receive mail at your current address, you can use the USPS "Do Not Forward" service to prevent mail from being forwarded to your new address.
  5. Remove your name from public directories: Some directories, like the White Pages or Yellow Pages, may sell your contact information to companies. You can opt-out of these directories or remove your name from them.
  6. Use a mail-blocking service: Services like 41pounds.co.uk (UK) or Catalog Choice (US) can help you stop receiving unwanted mail by blocking your address from being shared with companies.
  7. Check your credit reports: Your credit reports may contain information that's being used to target you with junk mail. Check your reports regularly and dispute any errors or inaccuracies.
  8. Use a junk mail filter: Some email providers, like Gmail, offer junk mail filters that can help reduce the amount of unwanted mail you receive.
  9. Report junk mail to the USPS: If you receive mail that's illegal or harassing, you can report it to the USPS's Consumer Affairs office.
  10. Consider a mail-blocking device: Devices like the Mailbox Guard or the Junk Mail Blocker can help filter out unwanted mail before it reaches your mailbox.

Remember, it may take some time and effort to completely eliminate junk mail, but by following these steps, you can reduce the amount of unwanted mail you receive.