Last Updated: August 1, 2019
Is your junk mail getting out of control or just when you think you've thrown away the junk paper, more comes in the mail? I'm here to tell you that you have options on how to make all of that junk mail stop coming your way!
4 Ways to Stop Junk Mail
- OptOutPrescreen.com – (USA residents only) eliminate the bulk of your junk mail by putting a freeze on your credit report or registering to optoutprescreen.com (a joint venture of the major credit reporting agencies). Once you do, companies will no longer be able to run credit checks on your name and send you pre-approved offers. For more information, head to the Federal Trade Commission's website: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0262-stopping-unsolicited-mail-phone-calls-and-email
- You can also contact the Direct Marketing Association (www.the-dma.org) (USA residents only) and request they add your name to their “Do not mail” database. The DMA is the largest U.S. data and marketing association. The program costs $2 and will block unwanted DMA mail for 10 years. It also offers registration for DMA’s email preference service.
- Opt-out of individual mailers/companies. This method requires more effort, but it guarantees that you pick the companies that you don’t want to receive junk mail from. You'd have to call/email each of the companies and ask them to remove you from their list. I have put together a quick list you can use to keep track of the junk-mail you want to opt-out of HERE
- Find an app that does it for you. One that is recommended over and over again is PaperKarma –> “Empty your recycling bin for good! PaperKarma is a mobile app that stops postal junk mail. Declutter your life. Protect your privacy. Help your loved ones avoid scams.” Download them on your phone/tablet.
Flamingo Tip: If you just moved, bought a house, having a new baby, got married, or have had any other life events recently where you could find yourself needing or wanting those coupons you get in the mail, then don't opt-out. Not all junk mail is evil, but this is a good way to get your life more organized. You can always opt-back in, so maybe after you are at a place where you don't feel as out of control, you can opt back in.
Flamingo Tip: When you move, don't fill out post office change of address forms, or your junk mail will follow you to you renew home. Instead, personally contact people and companies to provide them with your new address.
Kindly, Stephanie
