Freezing your credit is a crucial step in protecting your financial identity and preventing fraud. By freezing your credit, you can restrict access to your credit reports, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.
Key Facts
- Contact the three major credit bureaus individually: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can freeze your credit online, over the phone, or by mail.
- Gather the necessary information and documents before initiating the credit freeze. This may include a copy of your passport, driver’s license, or military ID, as well as tax documents, bank statements, or utility bills.
- Provide the required information to the credit bureaus, which may include personal identification and proof of address.
- Once the credit freeze is in place, it will secure your credit file until you decide to lift the freeze temporarily.
- To unfreeze your credit, visit the credit bureau’s website and use the account you used to freeze your credit. You may also be able to unfreeze your credit by phone or mail, providing certain verifying information.
Important facts about freezing your credit:
- Freezing your credit is free and won’t harm your credit.
- Freezing your credit helps prevent identity theft and fraud by blocking access to your credit reports.
- When your credit is frozen, potential creditors cannot see the data required to approve an application.
- You may need to temporarily lift the credit freeze when applying for new credit, such as a car loan or mortgage.
- Parents and guardians can also freeze the credit of a child under 16, requiring additional documentation to verify the child’s identity.
- Both a credit freeze and a credit lock block access to your credit reports, but there are differences, including legal protections and fees.
- While a credit freeze provides security, it’s important to remain vigilant and check monthly statements for signs of fraudulent activity.
How to Freeze Your Credit
To freeze your credit, you must contact each of the three major credit bureaus individually: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can initiate the freeze online, over the phone, or by mail.
Online
- Visit the website of each credit bureau and follow the instructions for freezing your credit.
- You will need to create an account or log in to your existing account.
- Provide the required personal information, including your Social Security number, date of birth, and address.
Phone
- Call the following numbers to freeze your credit:
- Equifax: 1-800-349-9960
- Experian: 1-888-397-3742
- TransUnion: 1-888-909-8872
- Provide the same information as required for the online request.
- Download the credit freeze request form from the credit bureau’s website.
- Complete the form and mail it to the address provided.
- Include copies of supporting documents, such as a passport, driver’s license, or utility bill.
Information Required
When freezing your credit, you will need to provide the following information:
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Address
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill)
Timeframe
The credit bureaus must freeze your credit within one business day if you request it online or by phone, and within three business days if you request it by mail.
Unfreezing Your Credit
To unfreeze your credit, you must contact the credit bureau where you originally froze it. You can unfreeze your credit online, over the phone, or by mail.
Online
- Log in to your account on the credit bureau’s website.
- Navigate to the credit freeze section.
- Click the “Unfreeze” button.
Phone
- Call the same number you used to freeze your credit.
- Provide your personal information and the reason for unfreezing.
- Download the credit freeze request form from the credit bureau’s website.
- Complete the form and mail it to the address provided.
- Request a temporary unfreeze or a permanent removal of the freeze.
Benefits of Freezing Your Credit
- Prevents identity theft and fraudBy freezing your credit, you make it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.
- Free and easyFreezing your credit is free and can be done quickly and easily.
- Does not affect your credit scoreFreezing your credit does not harm your credit score.
Considerations
- Temporary unfreezeYou may need to temporarily unfreeze your credit when applying for new credit, such as a car loan or mortgage.
- Credit locksCredit locks are similar to credit freezes but offer fewer legal protections and may charge a fee.
- VigilanceWhile a credit freeze provides security, it is still important to remain vigilant and check monthly statements for signs of fraudulent activity.
Sources
- NerdWallet: How to Freeze Your Credit
- USA.gov: Freezing and Unfreezing Credit Reports
- Equifax: Credit Freeze
FAQs
What is a credit freeze?
A credit freeze is a security measure that restricts access to your credit reports, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.
Why should I freeze my credit?
Freezing your credit helps prevent identity theft and fraud by blocking access to your credit reports. When your credit is frozen, potential creditors cannot see the data required to approve an application.
How do I freeze my credit?
To freeze your credit, you must contact each of the three major credit bureaus individually: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can freeze your credit online, over the phone, or by mail.
How long does it take to freeze my credit?
The credit bureaus must freeze your credit within one business day if you request it online or by phone, and within three business days if you request it by mail.
How do I unfreeze my credit?
To unfreeze your credit, you must contact the credit bureau where you originally froze it. You can unfreeze your credit online, over the phone, or by mail.
Is there a fee to freeze my credit?
No, freezing your credit is free.
Will freezing my credit affect my credit score?
No, freezing your credit does not affect your credit score.
What are the benefits of freezing my credit?
The benefits of freezing your credit include preventing identity theft and fraud, protecting your financial information, and maintaining a good credit score.