Ask about a printed member directory you do not use

Ask the association whether it can stop mailing you the printed directory while your membership and your directory entry stay as they are. Receiving a copy and being listed are two separate questions, so ask about each one by name.

By Junk Mail Magic. Updated October 2, 2026.

Write one request with two questions

Note the directory's title and edition, plus the department or publication contact printed in it or in its cover letter.
Find the member services contact on the association's official website.
Ask whether paper delivery of that directory can stop, and whether your current entry will remain unchanged if it does.
If the association mentions a digital version, ask whether switching to it affects your listing in any way.

Keep the request narrow

Name the directory specifically. A general request to stop mail could be read as covering dues notices, renewal paperwork or other publications you still need. If sponsor inserts or vendor offers also bother you, ask about them in a separate message so the directory answer stays clear.

Do not let membership lapse or ask to be unlisted just to stop a printed copy, unless you actually want to be removed from the directory.

Sample directory request

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

I am a member of [association]: [name as printed], [mailing address]. Please stop mailing me the printed [directory title]. Please keep my membership and my current directory listing unchanged. If a digital version is available, does choosing it affect my listing? Please confirm what you changed on my record.

Check the next edition

Record your request date and the edition you expect next. If another printed copy arrives, reply to the same contact with that edition's title and date and ask them to check your delivery preference.

Official source

FTC: How To Stop Junk Mail

Ask about vendor mail linked to an association Separate a public directory entry from advertising lists Ask about a digital association magazine Keep account notices while stopping promotions Membership preferences All practical mail guides

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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.

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