You can also add a freeze via the automated phone system (or opt to speak to a live agent) by calling 88. TransUnion credit freeze: You can request a TransUnion credit freeze through their online portal. You can also send a written request to Experian Security Freeze, P.O. You can also freeze your credit by mail using their Fraud Request Alert Form.Įxperian credit freeze: To freeze your credit at Experian, you can visit Experian's online Freeze Center. If you'd rather talk to a human, its customer care number is 88. These three credit bureaus are Equifax, Experian, and Transunion.Įquifax credit freeze: You can easily freeze your credit with Equifax on its website, or via an automated phone line: 80 (80 for New York residents). This can be accomplished online, by phone, or by mail. You will need to place a credit freeze with each of the three major credit bureaus individually. Note: Send copies of these documents, not the originals. To verify your address, you will need to include a copy of a lease agreement, pay stub with address, utility bill, or phone bill. For your social, you'll need a copy of your SSN card, pay stub with your SSN included, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
For your identity, you will need to include a copy of your driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID. If you request a credit freeze by mail, you will need to provide additional documents that verify your identity, social security number, and address.
#Freeze my credit full#
Gather your informationįor each of the bureaus, you'll need to provide personal information including your full legal name, social security number, date of birth, and home address. You'll need to freeze your credit from all three bureaus individually, says Mahnken. The most important thing to know when you freeze your credit is that the credit bureaus will not notify each other of a credit freeze as if you were reporting an instance of identity theft. "But keep in mind that it can be a hassle to remove a freeze from all three bureaus every time you need a credit check." "Freezing your credit is an effective, cost-free way to make it harder for thieves to open up credit cards or other financial accounts in your name," says Dana Marineau, the former vice president at Credit Karma.
#Freeze my credit free#
It is also free to unfreeze your credit if you want to use it for anything such as a new credit card or if you're buying a home. "If an identity thief or unauthorized person tries to apply for credit in your name, they will not be able to access your credit reports and the application will be denied."Īlso known as a security freeze, credit freezes were made completely free in 2018 by the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. "If you've been the victim of a data breach or identity theft, a credit freeze is a good way to mitigate the risk of further damage to your finances and identity," says Greg Mahnken, a former credit industry analyst with Credit Card Insider. This will stop potential lenders from looking at your credit file but will also prevent anyone from fraudulently taking out a loan or opening a line of credit in your name. What is a credit freeze?Ī credit freeze prevents the three major credit bureaus - Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion - from sharing your credit report with any person or lender. One of these tools is a credit freeze, which halts any new credit-related activity. Unfortunately, bad actors know this too, which is why your identity and credit are common targets for theft.įortunately, you have a few tools in your credit toolbox you can deploy against would-be identity thieves.
Your credit history and credit score dictate many of the major milestones in your life, from renting an apartment to buying a house.
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