Reducing Junk Mail

Any time you give your address to a business, whether you enter a contest, complete a warranty card or ask for information, it can wind up on mailing lists. If you want to reduce the amount of junk mail you get, be selective about who you give your address to.

If you order merchandise by phone, tell the operator not to add your name to the mailing list (or sell, rent, or trade your information). When ordering online, always check the opt-out box. If there isn't one, complete your order, then contact customer service by phone or email to make your request.

When you join a club, register for a conference, or fill out any form, tell the organization not to sell, trade, or rent your contact information. Also, check your credit cards’ privacy policies, which usually are sent annually. If you can’t find the information, call and find out how you can keep your name off their mailing lists.

You can keep your name off charity mailing lists (and keep from getting calendars, address labels, and greeting cards) by donating anonymously at networkforgood.org. They will send your donation, without your name or contact information, to the organization you choose, so you won't end up on solicitation lists.

You can visit www.optoutprescreen.com or call 888-567-8688 to remove yourself from the major credit bureaus' mailing lists for preapproved credit card and insurance offers. In addition, the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) will remove your name and address for three years for $1 when you go to dmachoice.org/mps. The DMA says this will reduce your unsolicited mail by up to 80 percent.

Many banks, telephone companies and other services with monthly charges offer online- billing and payment options. Not only will you get less mail, you'll conserve paper and avoid the cost of mailing checks.

Organized by Marcie: Getting you organized so you have time to do what you love to do!