Check Your Phone Number’s Status On The Do-not-call Registry

You may have recently heard stories warning that people will be dropped off the Do-Not-Call Registry. I wanted to set the record straight.

The federal Do-Not-Call list has been in existence for almost five years now. Because registrations are valid for five years, those who signed onto the list in its early days will automatically be dropped off the list beginning in June 2008 unless they enroll again.

For those who are not familiar with this program, telemarketers covered by the national "Do Not Call" Registry have up to 31 days from the date you first register to stop calling you. Under federal law, your number will stay in the registry for five years, or until it is disconnected, or until you delete it from the registry. You may renew your registration at any time for another five years.

If you changed your phone number, you must also re-register. You are allowed to register cell numbers.

You can check the date your registration will expire by going online and clicking on "Verify a Registration." You can renew your registration at any time by clicking on "Register a phone number."

To re-register by phone, call toll-free (888) 382-1222. You must call from the phone number you wish to register.

While there is still time before the June expiration date, it is good to start thinking about re-registering and confirming that you are on the registry.