eremedies

Stop junk mail

How much time do you waste rifling through mail you didn't ask for and don't really want? There was a time, perhaps, when junk mail was fun. Look, the new sale at the local mall, or there's a coupon from the local hairdresser. But do you really want piles of junk mail in your mailbox every afternoon? If your answer is a loud NO, you'll want to stop it. Just think of the trees you'll save and the time you'll save while you're not sifting through junk for that bill or even better, a real letter.

* Write to the companies that send out the mail, the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service:

Mail Preference Service
c/o Direct Mail Marketing Association
PO BOX 9008
Farmingdale, NY 11735-9008
212 768-7277

Ask that your name, address, and phone number be removed from ALL their lists. Give them all variant spellings of your name plus all other names, including previous occupants. They'll keep this info for 5 years. Write again then or when you move, and sign and date your letter. This will take some time to take effect. In the meantime you can CALL whoever is sending you the junk (don't write) and insist you're removed.

* Don't fill out your information online. Use another name and avoid sites that require your phone number or address. If it can't be avoided, make sure you find out if they distribute your info (if so, don't join!). Click or unclick the boxes that say "send me valuable offers" because with these they share your email address and perhaps also other information with advertisers. Don't sign up or even give your email address to sites with unknown or doubtful policies on sharing.

* Write to your credit card companies, utility companies, and bank asking that they don't share your information with any others. Make sure you get written verification from them.

* Don't give out your info over the phone either. When you actually sign up for something you want, use a unique middle initial or different spelling - later you can find out who has been selling your name.

* Don't send in warranty cards, surveys, etc. because these are other places to get your name on lists. Keep in mind that when you call 800 numbers, the companies get your number and can find out your address. Take your number off your voter registration form.

It's tough and shouldn't be necessary, but slowly you can reduce the amount of junk and unsolicited mail you receive. No junk mail! Imagine that!

For more info, please visit this site.