How to Place a Credit Freeze

What Is a Credit Freeze?

A credit freeze (security freeze) restricts access to your credit report, making it nearly impossible for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.

How Credit Freezes Work

When Frozen

• Lenders cannot access your credit report
• New credit applications are automatically denied
• Protects against new account fraud
• Doesn't affect existing accounts

When You Need Credit

• Temporarily lift (thaw) the freeze
• Provide PIN to the bureau
• Choose timeframe or specific creditor
• Re-freeze after application

Step-by-Step: How to Freeze Your Credit

You Must Contact ALL THREE Bureaus Separately

1. Equifax

• Online: Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services
• Phone: 1-800-349-9960
• Mail: Equifax Security Freeze, PO Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348

2. Experian

• Online: Experian.com/freeze/center.html
• Phone: 1-888-397-3742
• Mail: Experian Security Freeze, PO Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013

3. TransUnion

• Online: TransUnion.com/credit-freeze
• Phone: 1-888-909-8872
• Mail: TransUnion LLC, PO Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016

Information You'll Need

• Full name
• Social Security number
• Date of birth
• Current address (and previous if moved recently)
• Email address
• Phone number

Cost

FREE by federal law for everyone

What Happens After You Freeze

Immediately

• Receive confirmation (email or letter)
• Get PIN or password for lifting freeze
• Freeze is active within 24 hours

Save Your PINs

Store PINs securely - you'll need them to lift the freeze:

• Password manager
• Secure physical location
• Do NOT lose them

How to Lift (Thaw) a Freeze

Temporary Lift

• Contact bureau where you need access
• Provide your PIN
• Specify timeframe (1 day, 1 week, etc.)
• Or specify creditor name
• Free and instant online

Permanent Removal

• Contact each bureau
• Provide PIN
• Request permanent lift
• Effective within 1 hour online

What a Freeze Does NOT Do

• Doesn't prevent charges on existing accounts
• Doesn't prevent account takeover
• Doesn't affect your credit score
• Doesn't remove negative information
• Doesn't prevent employment background checks
• Doesn't prevent prescreened credit offers

Freeze vs Fraud Alert vs Lock

Credit Freeze

• Most secure option
• Legally regulated
• Free by law
• Requires action to lift

Fraud Alert

• Adds verification step
• Doesn't block access
• Free
• Lasts 1-7 years

Credit Lock

• Similar to freeze
• Often requires paid subscription
• Not federally regulated
• Easier to lock/unlock via app

When to Use a Credit Freeze

• You're a victim of identity theft
• Data breach exposed your SSN
• Not planning to apply for credit soon
• Want maximum protection
• General prevention (anyone can freeze)

Special Considerations

Freezing Child's Credit

• Contact each bureau separately
• Provide child's and your information
• Submit documents proving relationship
• Required documents vary by bureau

Deceased Person's Credit

• Executor can request freeze
• Provide death certificate
• Prevents identity theft of deceased

Common Questions

Will it hurt my credit score?

No, freezing has zero impact on your score.

Can I still use my credit cards?

Yes, existing accounts work normally.

How long does it take?

Freeze: 24 hours. Lift: 1 hour online, 3 days by phone.

What if I lose my PIN?

Contact the bureau to verify identity and get new PIN.