What is a "do not call list"?

A "do not call list" refers to the National Do Not Call Registry, which allows a person to limit telemarketing calls. Once a person registers his phone number, telemarketers covered by the Do Not Call Registry have up to 31 days to stop calling, advises the Federal Trade Commission.

The Do Not Call Registry stops most telemarketing calls, but calls from or on behalf of political organizations, charities and telephone surveyors are still allowed, as are calls from companies with which the person does business. In addition, a person can provide agreement in writing to receive calls from a company, according to the FTC, which is the agency that enforces violations.