Understanding and Stopping Pre-Approved Credit Card Offers for Strangers

Have you noticed that you've been receiving unsolicited credit card offers for strangers? This can be a nuisance and even a privacy concern. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind these offers and provide practical steps to stop them from cluttering your mail box.

Why Are You Receiving Unrelated Credit Card Offers?

Many companies have access to a wide range of databases that include your personal information such as your age, address, and credit history. After you reach the age of majority (usually 18 or 21 depending on the country), you are targeted by credit card companies looking for potential new customers.

These companies need to continuously generate income, and having new customers is their primary source of revenue, especially those who have just become legally eligible to apply for a credit card. The companies send out pre-approved marketing materials with the hopes that you will see the benefits and decide to apply for a credit card.

Identifying the Source of the Problem

If you are receiving these pre-approved credit card offers, there are a few key points to consider:

First Class Mail: If you are receiving these offers in standard first-class mail, it is likely that the address on file is still associated with your past residence. This can happen if you have not updated the credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion, Innovis) with your new address. CBU Cluster Mailboxes: If you live in an apartment complex, there may be a cluster mailbox for all units. This can complicate the process of removing your name from credit card offers. Policy and Procedure: Understand the specific procedures required to stop receiving these offers. The process involves writing a specific notation on the mailers and either leaving them in your mailbox or taking them to your local post office.

Steps to Stop Receiving These Offers

Here are the steps you can take to stop receiving pre-approved credit card offers:

1. Opt-Out of Pre-Screen Credit Card Offers

To opt out of these pre-screened credit card offers, you can do the following:

Online Opt-Out: You can opt out directly through the National Do Not Mail Registry (NDNMR). Simply visit and follow the instructions to register your opt-out. Do Not Call Registry: Although this registry is for telemarketers, you can also use it to add your name to the opt-out list, which may help in reducing the volume of unwanted credit card offers. Direct Mail: You can also write a letter to each of the major credit bureaus requesting to be removed from their mailing lists. Make sure to include your name, address, and other identifying information.

Note: When registering for opt-out, do not include your Social Security Number (SSN) but do provide your middle name and date of birth. This information can be found through publicly available services like TruePeopleSearch, MyLife, and TheNumber.

2. Properly Notation and Mail Handling

If you continue to receive these offers, specific notations and procedures must be followed:

Flagging Mailers: Write NOT at this address or MOVED on each mailer and place them inside your mailbox, ensuring the flag is up to draw attention. CBU Cluster Mail: If you live in a CBU cluster mailbox, take the mailers to the closest USPS location and ask for the form 3575Z/MLNA to be filled out for the name variation. Ambiguous Cases: If the person moved 18 months ago, write NOT at this address - MLNA moved left no address instead. This notation helps remove the name variation from the address list.

3. Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure you stop receiving these offers:

Contact USPS Carrier: If the mailers continue to arrive, it’s possible that the USPS still has the name variation listed as a resident at your address. Contact your mail carrier and request that the offer be marked Moved Left No Address. Complete Forms: Each variation of a name that receives credit card offers will require its own 3575Z/MLNA form to be filled out. Ensure you have the first four letters of the first/last name for correct processing by the mail sorting machines.

Conclusion

Receiving pre-approved credit card offers can be frustrating but understanding the reasons behind them and following the proper procedures to opt-out is important. By taking the necessary steps, you can ensure that your mailbox remains free from unsolicited credit card offers. Remember, staying proactive and informed about your privacy rights can protect your peace of mind and minimize unwanted disruptions in your daily life.