Posted Monday, November 26, 2012 --- 11:08 a.m.

Press Release from DATCP:

MADISON – You are likely to be very busy over the next couple of weeks with holiday planning, shopping and get-togethers. With that in mind, you should knock out your easiest chores while you still have some time. For example, register or re-register your phone number on the Wisconsin No Call List before the next quarterly deadline on November 30.

The free no call service, offered through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), covers residential land and cell phone lines. Consumers must register every two years to stay active.

To add your residential landline, cell phone or VoIP number(s) to the list, visit http://nocall.wisconsin.gov or dial 1-866-9NO-CALL (1-866-966-2255). The website and toll-free number are available all day, every day.

Wisconsin residents who add their numbers to the list by that date will receive protection from unsolicited telemarketing phone calls and text messages starting on January 1.

“Wisconsin residents should take a minute or two to add their numbers to the list before holiday chores become all-consuming,” said Sandy Chalmers, Division Administrator for Trade and Consumer Protection. “It’s free, quick and easy to get registered, so make adding your number to the list your first chore of the season.”

The list is updated four times per calendar year (January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1). The registration process is continuous, but those who sign up after the upcoming November 30 deadline will not be added to the list until April 1.

Political calls, calls from non-profit organizations and calls made in response to your written or verbal request or permission are not covered by the No Call law. Additional information is at nocall.wisconsin.gov.

For more information on the program or to file a consumer complaint, visit the Consumer Protection website at datcp.wisconsin.gov, send an e-mail to datcphotline@wisconsin.gov or call toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.

Connect with Consumer Protection on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wiconsumer.