Dialing is fine to join no-call list

Q. I read in the paper how you go about getting on the list to cancel out telemarketing calls. However, I don't have access to a computer, and I have a rotary dial phone. There were no instructions covering that particular situation, and I wondered if there was any other way I can get my name on the list. -- F.G., Cranston, R.I.
A. Even if you have a rotary dial phone, you can still enroll in the National Do Not Call Registry.
Call the toll-free number, at (888) 382-1222. While all the various options for touch-tone dialers are recited, just hang on. At the end, a "voice-activated" option takes over. That's what you want, registry project manager David Torok said.
The system will ask you to say your phone number. Using special voice-recognition technology, the system can accept for enrollment the number you speak, Torok said.
Make sure you're calling from the number you want enrolled with the registry. That's because the system will automatically verify the number you're calling from, Torok said. So you can't use a phone at work or at someone else's home to register your own home phone number, for instance.
If you register by Sunday, the government will start enforcing the restrictions on unwanted calls for you Oct. 1. (If you register after Sunday, it'll take three months until the restrictions take effect for your number.)
By enrolling, you'll eliminate many -- but not all -- of those pesky calls you get on your personal phone line.
As of Aug. 4, the registry had enrolled about 30 million phone numbers, Torok said. That's about half the overall number of phone numbers the registry estimates will eventually be enrolled.
Those with Internet access may also enroll online: www.donotcall.gov.
Q. I was 701/2 on July 17th. At my part-time job, I have a very small 401(k). Do I have to start to draw on the 401(k)? I've been advised yes, I do; no, I don't ... -- J.P.D., Cranston, R.I.
A. The general rule is that you must start withdrawing at least a minimum amount from your 401(k) or other such retirement-savings plan by April 1 of the year after the year in which you reach 701/2.
However, if your plan allows for it, your first such withdrawal for that plan won't be due until April 1 of the year after the year in which you actually retire (even if retirement occurs well after you turn 701/2). So ask your plan sponsor or administrator whether your plan has formally adopted this option.
XNeil Downing is a Providence Journal staff writer and author of "The New IRAs and How to Make Them Work for You."