Many questionnaires ask for more information than you're legally obliged to give. Here's what you do and don't have to answer:
You don't have to answer the questions about income, age and housing on warranty cards. This is just market research. In fact, you don't even have to send in the card - all you need for your guarantee is proof of purchase (see GUARANTEES AND WARRANTIES).
If you don't want unsolicited telephone calls, don't give your number.
Telephone surveys are just another form of market research. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to answer a multitude of questions, say so, firmly, at the start of the call.
When you apply for a mortgage, a scholarship, credit, insurance or a bank loan, however, you should be prepared to answer all the questions about your health and finances. If there's a personal question you're not comfortable answering, consult a solicitor.
On job applications you must answer questions about past employment truthfully. But you don't have to answer questions about race, religion, sexual orientation or national origin. Nor need you answer personal questions that don't relate to your ability to carry out the job. These include marital status or future marriage plans, number of children, age or date of birth, weight, handicaps (unless they would affect job performance), the person with whom you live, home ownership or rental status and outstanding debts.
Never give anyone you don't know information that might make you or your home more vulnerable to crime. Beware unsolicited telephone calls from people claiming to be security companies and asking questions about your home.
Remember that, although you are not legally obliged to answer many of the questions, some people may not be prepared to deal with you (that is, employ you, or give you credit) unless you are prepared to volunteer the requested information, and they will usually be within their rights not to do so. Use your discretion. It is not always wise to stick to your strict legal rights unless you feel strongly about them. In such a case, explain politely why you don't feel you can give the information.
