How to Stop Pre-Approved Credit Card Offers

Are you tired of annoying credit card offers filling your mailbox? If so, consider these three ways to have your name removed from pre-screened lists, and stop pre-approval offers permanently.

1. Notify Credit Bureaus with a Phone Call

Many consumers are unaware of a telephone number that completely stops all pre-approved credit card offers. One phone call to 1-888-5-Optout (1-888-567-8688) notifies all three credit bureaus of your wishes to no longer receive pre-screened offers. The system is automated, and callers have two opt-out options. The first option temporarily removes their name from pre-screened lists for two years, whereas the second option is a permanent removal.

2. Submit a Written Request to Bureaus

Contacting each credit bureau individually is another way to opt-out of pre-approved credit card offers. Unlike telephone or online notifications, this is not a one-stop method, and requires a bit more work on your part. Compose a simple letter and state your opt-out wishes. Include information such as your full name, alias, home address, mailing address, and social security number. If you have moved within the past 6 months, include your previous address. Submit written request to:

• Equifax Inc
  PO Box 740123
  Atlanta, GA 30374-0123
  
• TransUnion Name Removal Option
  P.O. Box 505
  Woodlyn, PA 19094
  
• Experian
  901 West Bond
  Lincoln, NE 68521
  Attn: Consumer Services Department

3. Contact Pre-Screen Marketing Department

Contact the Direct Marketing Association directly and avoid writing three separate letters. The credit bureaus acquire pre-screened lists from this company, and banks and other financial companies purchase the list from creditors. Following your request to have your name removed from the pre-screened list, all pre-approval credit card offers should stop. When writing the company, include your name, address, and social security number. Request a permanent removal. If not, you'll have to repeat the process every two years.

Direct Marketing Association
Attn: Mail Preference Service
PO Box 643
Carmel, NY 10512

Reasons to Stop Pre-Approval Credit Card Offers

Stopping pre-approved credit card offers has several benefits. Mailboxes are no longer bombarded with unsolicited mails, and you lower the risk of identity theft. It's common knowledge that identity thieves routinely peruse neighborhoods and swipe credit card offers from curb mailboxes. Once the credit card offers are in their possession, thieves can fraudulently open new account and cash-in on your good name. Accounts are opened with a fake address, and victims are unaware of the thievery until it's too late.