Sep 2008
22
by billeater
Posted In: credit cards
Did you know that you can opt out of those "pre approved" credit card offers that fill up your mailbox ? Equifax, Experian, Innovis, and TransUnion are required by the Fair Credit reporting act to provide a way for consumers to opt out of these types of mailings that they call "firm offers". Benefits of opting out:
- Less junk mail
- Reduced risk of identity theft
- Better for the environment, less paper wasted
- Removes the unneeded temptation to get deeper into debt
These companies provide a website at OptOutPrescreen.com that allows you to either opt out permanently by sending a letter via U.S. mail, or to opt out for five years electronically.
And, it's completely free. Don't fall for paid services that reduce junk mail, as it's likely that they are taking your money just to re-enter the information into the no-charge website mentioned above.
(1 vote)
©2009
Re: Stop those pre-approved credit card offers, similar to ...
I jumped on that thing years ago Bill, and I get very little junk mail any more. Can't recall the last time I received an offer for a pre-approved CC. Why does not every single person in the USA enroll?
Re: Stop those pre-approved credit card offers, similar to ...
This is a very good tip. I opted out several years ago and I do not receive these things any more.
A word of caution for things like this that are received in the mail that include an application. I always make sure that I remove the application, or part that includes my name/address and I shred it prior to discarding the other paper material. This prevents someone from removing it from your trash and applying in your name with a changed address.