Reduce Junk Mail? Yes, You Can!

Photo by Pau Casals on Unsplash

Part I: Reducing Junk Mail

I love weeding junk mail. Similar to gardening, it’s pretty clear what to eliminate. And removing weedy mail takes just a few steps. These easy decisions and simple actions reap pleasing rewards.

In the spirit of taking small steps towards larger goals, I’m breaking this topic into two parts. Part I focuses on one action that yields long-term results. Here’s how:

Register for the Association of National Advertiser's opt-out service -- $4 online/ $5 by mail -- it’s good for ten years. The ANA adds your name to their Opt-Out file, which they distribute monthly to subscribing companies. Be sure to include your prior addresses! Just below your address, click on +Add another address Your mail flow should decrease within three months.

More helpful services the ANA offers:

• You can remove deceased contacts for free.

• There’s an Opt-Out for Caregivers, family members and friends.

• There’s also an Email Opt-Out Service for everyone.

• And for Pennsylvania and Wyoming, a Phone Opt-Out service.

Opt out of Prescreened Credit & Insurance Offers with OptOutPrescreen.com. I did it in less than a minute. The form asks for your social security number, but it isn’t required. If you prefer, you can reach OptOutPrescreen by phone. Call 1-888-567-8688. This opt-out request is good for 5 years. A permanent opt-out option is also available if you’re willing to mail in a form.

Photo by Alexander Grey

Part II: Weeding Out Junk Mail

I wish I could tell you that the first step would remove all your junk mail. Unfortunately, local marketing mail will still get to your mailbox. Here’s how I sort the remaining stuff:

1. Open all the envelopes. Place the ones that have return envelopes in a pile.

• Find the page that has your address printed on it and any codes or account numbers.

• On that page, circle your address and write: "Pls remove from mailing lists”

• Stick that page in the matching envelope.

• If required, add postage.

• Send it off!

2. If there is no return envelope, look for a website or phone number. Often you can call or go to their website to get removed from mailing lists.

3. If there’s an organization you do want to keep in touch with, contact them and ask them to switch to email only.

Let me know how it goes! Please send comments, stories, suggestions, etc to: SpaceForYou.Us@gmail.com

If you need help with this or other organizing projects, I would love to work with you.