Do-Not-Call List
Information for Montana Citizens
What is a Do-Not-Call List?
It is a list of phone numbers that cannot be called by Telemarketers. If you place yourself on the lists, you will receive fewer telemarketing calls.
What is Telemarketing?
In Montana, telemarketing is defined as using the phone to encourage the purchase of, rental of, or investment in, goods, property, or services.
Why is there a State and a Federal list?
The Federal list only covers calls that cross state lines. The State list covers all telemarketing calls within, to, or from Montana. If you sign up on either list, you will be placed on the other one as well. (For example, signing up for the Federal Do-Not-Call List will add your name to the state list).
How Much does it Cost to Signup for the Do-Not-Call Lists?
It is free to signup for the Do-Not-Call Lists.
How Do I Signup for the Federal Do-Not-Call List?
There are two ways to sign up. You can call 1-888-382-1222 (TTY 1-866-290-4236) from the phone number you wish to add. (For example, to add your home phone number you must call using your home telephone). You can add up to 3 numbers by using the internet at www.donotcall.gov. You cannot sign up by writing a letter. The only information collected is your phone number and the date you called. You will be signed up for five years.
How Do I Sign-up for the State Do-Not-Call List?
The State list will not start its signup until January of 2004. If you signup on the Federal list, you will be automatically placed on the State list as soon as it starts. You will not have to do anything else.
Do I have to Signup for the Federal Do-Not-Call List As Well?
If you sign-up for one of the lists, you will automatically be placed on the other. (So signing up for the State list automatically puts you on the Federal list.)
After I Sign-up, How Long Can Telemarketers still Call Me?
Telemarketers will be able to call you for 3 months after you sign up. The sooner you sign up, the sooner your calls will decrease.
Are Political Ads and Surveys covered by the Do-Not-Call Lists?
No, political ads and surveys are not covered by the Do-Not-Call list. You will still receive them.
Are There Some Telemarketers that Can Still Call Me?
Yes, some telemarketers will still be able to call: (for example)
- Telemarketers you have authorized to call.
- Telemarketers that are calling from their own home.
- Businesses may call their existing customers to offer new products, and may call people who were customers at any time within the last 180 days (for the state list) or 18 months (for the federal list).
- Professionals licensed by the Sate can call you to set up appointments.
Are Charities Covered by the Do-Not-Call Lists?
Charities and non-profits can still call you. If you wish not to be called by them, you must request that they put you on their Do-Not-Call List. If you ask them to, they must do so.
How Do I File a Complaint if a Telemarketer Still Calls Me?
If you don’t know where they are calling from, call the FTC at 1-888-382-1222. If you know they are calling from Montana, call the Montana Consumer Protection Office at 1-406-444-4500.
How Do I File a Complaint if I Think a Telemarketer has Stolen My Money?
Call the Consumer Protection Office at 1-406-444-4500 and file a complaint.
What if I want my Name Removed from the Do-Not-Call List?
Call 1-888-382-1222 and follow the instructions provided.
Is E-mail or Junk Mail Covered by this Law?
No, they are not covered by this law or any other Montana law. For more information about Email or Junk Mail go to www.donotcall.gov.
