What to do about junk mail

The never-ending battle against junk mail! Here are some effective ways to reduce or eliminate unwanted mail:

  1. Opt-out of prescreened credit offers: Visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website and use their Opt-Out form to stop receiving prescreened credit offers for five years.
  2. Register with the Direct Marketing Association (DMA): The DMA offers a Mail Preference Service that allows you to opt-out of receiving mail from participating companies. You can register online or by mail.
  3. Contact individual companies: If you receive mail from a specific company, contact them directly to ask to be removed from their mailing list. You can usually find their contact information on the mail piece.
  4. Use the USPS "Do Not Mail" service: The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a "Do Not Mail" service that allows you to request that your name be removed from mailing lists. You can submit a request online or by mail.
  5. Use a mail-blocking service: Services like 41pounds.co.uk (UK) or MailBlock (US) can help you stop receiving junk mail by blocking your address from being shared with marketers.
  6. Recycle or shred unwanted mail: If you can't avoid receiving junk mail, make sure to recycle or shred it to prevent identity theft and reduce clutter.
  7. Consider a paperless billing option: Many companies offer paperless billing options, which can help reduce the amount of mail you receive.
  8. Use a postal box or mailbox rental: If you're receiving a lot of junk mail at your home address, consider renting a postal box or mailbox to receive your mail.
  9. Report junk mail to the FTC: If you receive mail that is fraudulent or misleading, report it to the FTC's Consumer Complaint Assistant.
  10. Support anti-junk mail initiatives: Encourage your local government to implement anti-junk mail initiatives, such as banning junk mail or implementing recycling programs.

Remember, it's essential to be proactive and persistent in reducing junk mail. It may take some time and effort, but the benefits to your environment, wallet, and sanity are well worth it!