·        Call this toll-free number and follow the instructions:  1-888-5opt-out.  You will get a recording that asks if you want off prescreened credit card lists for 2 years, for 5 years, or forever;  if you choose “forever,” you will receive a notice in the mail requesting your signature. When you call, you will be asked for your Social Security number, and it is OK to give it in this instance.  This toll-free number is affiliated with the “big 3” credit reporting agencies (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian).  Note that you will still receive some offers from companies not affiliated with the “big 3” but you will receive fewer offers as a result of calling this toll-free number. 

·        When a telemarketer affiliated with a credit card company calls, say, “Please put me on your do-not-call list.”  By law, they have to take you off their direct marketing list affiliated with that product.  If they call you again, you can sue them in small claims court (also put your request in writing and keep a copy as evidence of your request).

·        Beware contest entry forms or other “freebie” offers.  Once you give someone your name and address, it could go on their direct marketing list, and your name could be sold and resold  resulting in even more “junk mail” and prescreened credit card offers.

For more information, go to http://www.extension.iastate.edu/pubs/co2.htm and scroll to Pm 1726.