Credit card companies are allowed to purchase certain information about you from credit bureaus, even if you have not applied for a card or done any other business with them. They can only get limited information that shows if you qualify for certain offers. These offers are mailed to you if you qualify, and you have the option of accepting or ignoring them. If you want to recieve them, TransUnion, Experian and Equifax provide a simple way to opt in to receive credit card offers.
Step 1
Go to the Opt Out Prescreen website, which is run by the three credit bureaus to let consumers adjust their marketing preferences. Click the "Opt-In or Opt-Out" button.
Step 2
Select the opt-in option. The site says this will ensure that you receive credit card offers through the mail. You may also get insurance offers.
Step 3
Type the required information into the opt-in form. You must provide your name, Social Security number, address, telephone number and date of birth. The site explains that your Social Security number will be encrypted to protect it when the form is being submitted.
Step 4
Proofread the information you entered in the form and click the "Confirm" button. You information will be processed and you will receive credit card offers through the mail if you have a good enough credit rating to qualify for them.
Tips and Warnings
- You can temporarily opt in for credit card mailing offers when you are searching for a new account. Use the Opt Out Prescreen site to opt out when you are no longer seeking credit.
- The U.S. Department of Justice warns that mailed credit card offers can be a treasure trove for criminals. Your identity can be stolen if a thief takes a pre-approved credit card application from your mailbox or if you throw away offers without shredding them. Get a locking mailbox and destroy mailings before throwing them away.
Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Internet connection
- Personal information
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