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How Do I Stop Junk Mail for a Deceased Person?

Dealing with the administrative aftermath of a loved one’s passing is never easy, and the influx of overwhelming junk mail can add to the already heavy burden. The constant bombardment of unwanted solicitations, catalogs, and credit card offers can be a painful reminder of your loss and a hindrance to the grieving process. In this article, we will delve into the realm of deceased person junk mail and provide a comprehensive guide to stopping it, offering solace and practicality during a challenging time.

The Bereavement Exemption Service

Initiated by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA), the Deceased Suppression File (DSF) service is specifically designed to curb unsolicited mail for deceased individuals. By registering the deceased person’s name and address with the DSF, you trigger a three-year suppression period, during which their name will be removed from mailing lists used by DMA members. While it doesn’t guarantee an immediate halt to all junk mail, it significantly reduces its volume.

To register for the DSF service, follow these steps:

• Visit the DMA Choice website (https://www.dmachoice.org/consumer-choice/) or call 1-888-567-8689.
• Provide the deceased person’s name, address, and date of death.
• Request a Deceased Suppression File (DSF) form and complete it.
• Return the form by mail or fax as instructed.

Contacting Individual Senders

The DSF service covers a wide range of mailers, but some companies may not be DMA members or may require separate notification. To stop junk mail from these senders, directly contact the companies involved and inform them of the person’s passing.

How to contact individual senders:

• Locate the return address on the junk mail envelope or postcard.
• Write a brief letter or email informing the company of the deceased person’s passing and requesting removal from their mailing list.
• Include a copy of the deceased person’s death certificate for verification purposes.
• Send your request to the return address or email provided by the company.

Additional Tips and Expert Advice

• Check online accounts: Review the deceased person’s email and social media accounts to identify any subscriptions or mailing lists they were signed up for. Unsubscribe or deactivate these accounts to prevent further emails or direct mail.

• Notify the post office: Contact the local post office and inform them of the deceased person’s passing. They may be able to intercept and destroy any mail addressed to the deceased before it reaches their mailbox.

• File a complaint with the FTC: If you continue to receive unsolicited mail after following the above steps, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.ftc.gov/complaint.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take for the DSF service to take effect?
A: It can take up to two months for the DSF suppression period to become fully effective.

Q: Can I register more than one deceased person for the DSF?
A: Yes, you can register multiple deceased persons by submitting separate DSF forms for each individual.

Q: What if I receive junk mail addressed to my deceased loved one after the three-year suppression period?
A: Contact the senders directly and request to be removed from their mailing list again. If the mail continues, file a complaint with the FTC.

Conclusion

Dealing with deceased person junk mail can be a daunting task, but by utilizing the Bereavement Exemption Service and following the additional tips outlined in this article, you can significantly reduce the influx of unsolicited mail. Remember, you are not alone in navigating this process, and by taking proactive steps, you can find solace and restore a sense of peace during a challenging time.

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