Direct Marketing Opt-Out Letter Template & Generator

If you need to require organisation to stop processing data for direct marketing, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong direct marketing opt-out letter should include, plus a free tool to generate yours.

What this letter needs to cover

• Reference Article 21 UK GDPR absolute right to object to direct marketing
• State this right must be honoured immediately
• Request written confirmation that data will no longer be used for marketing
• Note right to complain to ICO if the request is not honoured

Your absolute right to stop direct marketing

Unlike most data processing grounds, your right to object to direct marketing is absolute — an organisation cannot refuse or weigh it against their own interests once you've objected. This applies regardless of whether they originally had your consent or were relying on legitimate interests to contact you.

What to include before you send it

• A clear statement that you're objecting to your data being used for direct marketing purposes
• Confirmation of which organisation and, if relevant, which specific marketing channel (email, post, phone)
• A request for confirmation that marketing has stopped and your preference has been recorded
• A request that your data not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes going forward

What this doesn't stop

Objecting to marketing doesn't require an organisation to stop all contact — they can still send you service-related communications, such as order confirmations, account notices, or responses to your own enquiries, since these aren't marketing in the legal sense.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly should marketing stop after I object?
It should stop promptly — continuing to receive marketing well after a clear objection can itself be reported to the ICO.

Does this also cover marketing texts and calls?
Yes, and separate rules under PECR also specifically restrict unsolicited marketing calls and texts, giving you additional protection beyond UK GDPR alone.

See our full letter template & generator library for related letters, or use our free checkers for guidance specific to your situation.