Junk Mail - Can I Have My 30 Minutes Per Week Back Please?

On average, I spend approximately 5 minutes per mail delivery day sorting through my mail, separating "good, important mail" from the "junk". That equates to 30 minutes per week. 30 minutes that I can do something much more productive, trust me. But I know I am not alone in this fight against unwanted incoming mail - it's the number one reason clients call me - to help them with the never ending reproduction of junk mail that is accumulating in their homes. No one I know is immune to this, but you can take steps to cut down on the amount you receive.

My preferred method for unsolicited credit card and insurance offers is to "Opt-Out". In a few short minutes, you can begin the process by calling toll free 1-888-5-OPT-OUT. (1-888-567-8688), or, visit www.OptOutPrescreen.com which is the official website for opt-in or out requests. I used the toll-free number, and was able to "opt-out" for both myself and my spouse in less than 5 minutes. Think of that! 5 minutes and you can be on your way to less junk mail, less clutter, less stress, and the added benefit of knowing you are taking precautions in protecting yourself from identity theft. Now, let me tell you it is not instantaneous, but at least you are one step in the right direction to somewhat eradicating this monster. Read the fine print carefully on the OptOutPreScreen website so you fully understand what they can and will do. This is not a 100% guarantee, but it does help. However, you must realize that if you do business with a particular company, you will probably continue to receive mail from them.

To remove yourself from unwanted catalogues and other junk mail, contact the Direct Marketing Association. You can also contact catalogue companies directly and request to be removed from their mailing list. Cumbersome perhaps, but may be well worth the effort if you have a growing mail problem. If you are patient, many companies will eventually stop sending you catalogues if you don't order from them. If you shop on-line, many times during the ordering process, companies will ask if you want to receive their promotional materials. It would be wise to "just say no".

You can take charge of your junk mail woes if you are persistent and do your homework. I encourage you to visit both these websites to familiarize yourself with the process and details. After all, it's your mailbox and precious time...