Ask about two donor records at one address
A charity may keep separate records for two people at the same address, which can mean duplicate mailings. To sort it out, note whose name is on each piece and get permission before acting on a record that is not yours.
How to address duplicate donor records
- Read the mailing label on each piece and write down the name exactly as printed. The charity's record follows that spelling.
- Contact donor services and ask whether it has separate records for both names at your address. Give the exact label text for each.
- For the record in your own name, request the preference change you want. For another person's record, confirm with that person first.
- Ask whether merging the two records would affect gift history or attribution, then decide with the other person whether to merge or keep them separate.
Changes to another person's record need their agreement
Ask each named person which appeals they want to stop. If both want a change, quote each printed name and label code in the request and ask the charity whether it can handle them together. Keep gift acknowledgments and donation records separate from advertising. Do not assume a correction to one name also changes the other.
Record what each label says before calling
Write down the exact name and address from each label before you call. That helps donor services find the right records and lowers the chance of an unintended change.
Instructions for the next step
Have an unwanted advertisement ready?
Photograph one piece you are authorized to handle, with the sender and full mailing label visible. Review the details before submitting. The first request is free; the sender controls the response.
Try one request free