Telemarketer: Hi. Would you be interested in switching over to TMI Long Distance service?

Jerry Seinfeld: Oh, gee, I can't talk right now. Why don't you give me your home number and I'll call you later.

Telemarketer: Uh, sorry, we're not allowed to do that.

Seinfeld: Oh, I guess you don't want people calling you at home.

Telemarketer: No.

Seinfeld: Well, now you know how I feel. (Hangs up).

—from NBC’s Seinfeld

Folks who signed up for Canada’s do-not-call-list are applauding the fact telemarketers are not allowed to contact them if they choose.

However, there’s a few things they must know.

The new rules came into effect Sept. 30 with the launch of Canada's first national DNCL.

The new regulations require all telemarketers to register whether or not they are exempt or not.

Another requirement is for exempt organizations — the rules still allow calls from charities, those with whom existing business relationships exist, political parties and newspapers — to maintain their own do-not-call lists.

However, those who have registered may still be receiving unwanted calls.

That’s because 31 days are allowed for DNCL requests to take effect, or exempt callers are getting through. Parliament recognized exempt groups serve the public interest in one way or another.

If consumers receive a call from a company they no longer wish to hear from, they simply have to request, on the call, they not be called again. It's just that simple.

Just about all phone users, including residential, wireless, fax or VoIP telephone customers, can get on the DNCL.

You can also check your registration, find out how to remove your number from the National DNCL, and file a complaint about telemarketing calls.

To register, log onto https://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca or call 1-866-580-3625.