Opt Out and Opt In Options

[ficus]

I just recently learned that apparently it's possible to officially opt out of receiving credit card offer solicitations by mail. I realize that it's not customary to provide links in posts, but I hope this one doesn't get deleted because it relates directly to the industry itself and how we can participate in how it affects our lives. https://www.optoutprescreen.com Apparently, you can opt back in if you choose so. Somewhat of a "Do not call" list sort of thing.

[ficus]

I am thinking that if a person has their credit in good shape and expenses under control, and know that they definitely won't need t any credit cards for some time, they could also be doing themselves a favor by lowering the mail traffic. Because the less junk mail we get the less the chance that some important letter might get lost in the shuffle. And it also minimally assists in protecting your identity. I personally cut out every segment on any letter that has my name or address on it before throwing away the advertisement.

[Anonymous]

No problem with the link.  For those who prefer the phone, call 1-888-OPT-OUT.

[silly34]

My wife did this but we still get offers. ??!!??

[tdr]

I Opt'd Out about 3 months ago and it took about 2 months before not only was I receiving fewer offers but more importantly the duplicates especially from Chase and Discover stopped.  My shredder is very happy too.  

[MidnightVoice]

I figure that opting out about 6 years ago has saved a fair number of trees!

And it is not a bad thing to have if you have low scores and someone does a manual review of your CR

[Anonymous]

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silly34 wrote:
My wife did this but we still get offers. ??!!??

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As tdr says it may take a few months.

Also, you will still get offers if you belong to certain professional organizations, frequent flyer programs, alumni or affinity groups, etc. They get their mailing lists from somewhere other than the credit bureaus.

Ooooooops!   Did you know that?!  The credit bureaus (EX, EQ, TU and Innovis) SELL mailing lists with your info to potential creditors and insurance providers.  The opt out website directs only the CRAs to stop; it doesn't have any control over companies that get your data elsewhere.

[MidnightVoice]

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masdeocho wrote:

Also, you will still get offers if you belong to certain professional organizations, frequent flyer programs, alumni or affinity groups, etc. They get their mailing lists from somewhere other than the credit bureaus.

True - I still get a few, but it still reduces the recycling trmendously. 

[Anonymous]

I opted out about 2 mos ago now and it has really helped. Still get the stray pre screen ev. once in a while though. it ok though.

[SpecFile]

Opt out about six months ago and get virtually nothing in the way of pre-screened offers.