Ask a sender for help with a postal preference in another language

Ask the sender directly whether it can take a mail preference request in your language. Do not assume it can. In the same message, state the exact preference, such as stopping printed advertising to your address, and ask for a written way to make the request if your language is not supported.

By Junk Mail Magic. Updated October 2, 2026.

Build the request

Find the sender's name on the advertisement. Look up its contact details on its official website instead of relying only on a phone number or link printed in the mailer.
Write the preference in one plain sentence, for example: please stop sending printed advertising to this address.
Ask which languages the sender can use for this request and whether it accepts written requests or can send a written reply.
Write down the date, the contact method and any reply, and keep that note with the advertisement.

What to include and what to leave out

Include the sender name, the name and address exactly as printed, and the one preference. Leave out account numbers, identity documents and any explanation of why you need another language. If a friend or relative translates, they should act only with your permission and see only what the request needs.

Read any reply for what it says about printed advertising. An offer of help in another language is not a confirmation that mail will stop.

Sample language and preference request

Example for your own use. Replace the bracketed details and review what you share.

To [sender name]: I received printed advertising at [mailing address as printed]. Please stop sending printed advertising to this address. Can you handle this request in [preferred language]? If not, please tell me which languages you support or give me a written way to make this request. Thank you, [name as printed on mail].

When the answer does not help

If the reply comes in a language you cannot read or offers no workable route, ask a trusted helper to read it with you. Then check the sender's official website for another contact method, such as a mailing address or online form, and send the same request there.

Official source

FTC: How To Stop Junk Mail

Request written contact for a postal-mail preference Make a plain-language card for a helper Shorten a mail-removal request for a small form Prepare a postal preference call with limited internet access Mail routines that fit your needs All practical mail guides

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