Many people mistakenly believe there is a deadline for calling to be placed on the do not call list. This is false; the registration for the "do not call" list is an ongoing endeavor. The September deadline mentioned in some public information pertains to having your name placed on the first list that will be available to telemarketers in early November.

Pennsylvania residents are able to register on an ongoing basis; names are now being collected for the quarterly update to be sent to telemarketers in December.

Updated lists will be available to telemarketers on a quarterly basis. Once the telemarketers receive the list they have 30 days to remove your name. It's important to understand there may be a delay of up to three months from the time you call to register to the time your name is distributed to telemarketers.

If you receive a telemarketing call that you believe is in violation of the "do not call" law you will need to contact the Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection to file a complaint. It will be up to you to get as much information as possible about the telemarketer including the company name, the number the call was made from and whom you spoke to in order for the BCP to investigate your complaint.

The number to call to be placed on the "Do Not Call" list is (888) 777-3406; this is an automated system and you will be asked for your name, address, and telephone number.

You do not need to submit your Social Security number. Pennsylvania residents can also register online at www.nocallsplease.com. Some people who have registered for the "do not call" list have received followed up calls. In some cases the Attorney General's office may call to obtain information from people whose messages were cut off or inaudible.

If you receive such a call the caller will identify herself and ask only for the information you previously provided; you will not be asked to supply a Social Security number, or told you need to send in a fee. If you receive a call asking for your social security number or money, hang up; do not give your social security number to anyone unless you initiated the call.

For additional information call MCCAA at (724) 342-6222 ext. 13 or e-mail nll@pathway.net or online at www.nocallsplease.com.