How to Freeze Your Credit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Freezing your credit is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from identity theft and fraudulent credit activity. A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, preventing unauthorized individuals or businesses from opening accounts in your name. Here’s a comprehensive guide to freezing your credit.

What Is a Credit Freeze?

A credit freeze, also known as a security freeze, limits access to your credit report. When your credit is frozen:

• Creditors cannot access your report to approve new accounts.

• Fraudsters are unable to open loans or credit cards in your name.

However, it doesn’t affect existing accounts or prevent fraud on them. You’ll need to unfreeze your credit if you want to apply for new loans, credit cards, or other financial products.

Why Should You Freeze Your Credit?

Freezing your credit is particularly useful if:

• You suspect identity theft or personal data breaches.

• You’re not actively applying for new credit.

• You want peace of mind knowing no one can misuse your information to open fraudulent accounts.

It’s free to freeze and unfreeze your credit, thanks to federal law.

How to Freeze Your Credit

You must freeze your credit separately at each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Here’s how:

1. Gather Necessary Information

Before initiating a freeze, have the following ready:

• Full name (including suffixes, if applicable)

• Address history (past two years)

• Date of birth

• Social Security number

• Copies of documents verifying your identity and address (e.g., driver’s license, utility bill, passport).

2. Contact Each Credit Bureau

You can request a freeze online, by phone, or by mail. Online is the fastest method.

Bureau	Online Freeze Link	Phone Number	Mailing Address
Equifax	Equifax Freeze Center	888-298-0045	P.O. Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348
Experian	Experian Freeze Center	888-397-3742	P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion	TransUnion Service Center	800-916-8800	P.O. Box 160, Woodlyn, PA 19094

3. Submit Your Request

Follow the instructions provided by each bureau:

• Online: Create an account or log in to manage freezes instantly.

• Phone: Provide personal information and answer security questions.

• Mail: Send a written request with copies of verifying documents via certified mail.

Freeze requests are usually processed:

• Within one business day for online or phone submissions.

• Within three business days for mail requests.

4. Receive Confirmation

Once the freeze is active, you’ll receive confirmation from each bureau. Keep track of any PINs or passwords provided—they’ll be needed if you want to lift the freeze later.

How to Unfreeze Your Credit

If you need to apply for new credit, you can temporarily lift or permanently remove a freeze:

1. Log in online or call the bureau where you froze your report.

2. Choose between:

   • Temporary Thaw: Specify dates when the freeze should be lifted and automatically reapplied.

   • Permanent Thaw: Remove the freeze indefinitely.

Unfreezing online or by phone typically happens within an hour; mail requests take up to three business days.

Freezing Your Child’s Credit

Children are vulnerable to identity theft because they often lack active credit monitoring. If you suspect fraud or want extra protection:

1. Check if your child has a credit report (most don’t unless added as an authorized user).

2. Request a freeze by providing their Social Security card and birth certificate along with proof of parental authority.

3. Follow similar steps as freezing an adult’s credit.

Important Notes About Credit Freezes

1. A freeze does not protect existing accounts—monitor them regularly for suspicious activity.

2. Freezing your credit does not impact your credit score.

3. You can still access free annual credit reports while frozen.

4. Consider using temporary thaws when applying for specific loans or services.

Credit Freeze vs. Credit Lock

While both restrict access to your credit report:

• A credit freeze is free and mandated by law.

• A credit lock may be offered by bureaus as a paid service with additional features but isn’t governed by federal law.

Final Thoughts

Freezing your credit is a simple yet powerful tool for safeguarding against identity theft and fraud. By taking proactive steps with all three bureaus and keeping track of PINs or passwords, you can enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that your financial information is secure.

Disclaimer:

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial or investment advice. The information provided may not be applicable to your specific circumstances and should not be relied upon as a substitute for individualized professional advice. This article is not intended to create, and it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Megan Walukiewicz Robin is not a registered financial planner, accountant, investment advisor, or broker-dealer. Megan Walukiewicz Robin and Megan Robin Law are not responsible for any losses or damages resulting from actions taken based on the information provided on this website. Circular 230 Notice: Any tax advice contained in this communication is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties under U.S. federal tax law.