Why do I receive so many offers for new credit cards in the mail?

Credit card issuers, auto finance companies, and other lenders or insurers can ask the credit reporting companies for a list of names and addresses of individuals who meet certain criteria, such as a minimum credit score, and the credit reporting companies provide these lists based on their credit files.

If you don’t want card issuers or other companies to get your information in this way, you can opt out for five years by calling 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1-888-567-8688) or by visiting www.optoutprescreen.com .

To opt out permanently, you must download and mail a signed Permanent Opt-Out Election form, available by calling 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1-888-567-8688) or by visiting www.optoutprescreen.com .

If you opt out, your name will no longer appear on lists provided by credit reporting companies. However, card issuers can still solicit and send you offers if they’ve done business with you before or if they get your name from other sources.

Read more about credit cards

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