How to Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit with All The Bureaus

Protecting your credit is a key part of maintaining financial health. One of the most effective ways to guard against identity theft and fraudulent activity is by freezing your credit.

A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to freeze and unfreeze your credit with the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

What Is a Credit Freeze?

A credit freeze, also known as a “security freeze”, is a free service that prevents lenders and creditors from accessing your credit report without your authorization. This makes it difficult for someone to open new credit accounts in your name. Freezing your credit does not affect your credit score or prevent you from using existing credit accounts.

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Why You Might Need to Freeze Your Credit

Freezing your credit is particularly useful in these situations:

• Suspected Identity Theft: If you believe your personal information has been compromised, freezing your credit can minimize the risk of fraudulent accounts.
• Proactive Protection: Even if you haven’t experienced identity theft, freezing your credit adds an extra layer of security.
• Major Life Events: During times when your information might be shared more frequently (e.g., buying a home), a credit freeze ensures your data is protected.

How to Freeze Your Credit with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion

Freezing your credit is a straightforward process and can typically be done online, over the phone, or via mail.

You’ll need to provide: Full name, Address, Social Security number, Date of birth, A copy of a government-issued ID and proof of address (e.g., utility bill).

Here’s how to freeze your credit with each bureau:

Equifax

1. Online: Visit the Equifax Freeze Page.
2. Phone: Call Equifax at 1-800-349-9960.
3. Mail: Send a written request to: Equifax Security Freeze P.O. Box 105788 Atlanta, GA 30348-5788

Experian

1. Online: Visit the Experian Freeze Center.
2. Phone: Call Experian at 1-888-397-3742.
3. Mail: Send your request to: Experian Security Freeze P.O. Box 9554 Allen, TX 75013

TransUnion

1. Online: Go to the TransUnion Freeze Page.
2. Phone: Call TransUnion at 1-888-909-8872.
3. Mail: Send a written request to: TransUnion Consumer Solutions P.O. Box 2000 Chester, PA 19016

How to Unfreeze Your Credit

Unfreezing your credit, also called a “thaw,” is just as simple as freezing it. The process allows you to temporarily or permanently lift the freeze so creditors can access your report. Here’s how to unfreeze your credit:

Temporary Lift

If you’re applying for credit or a loan, you can temporarily lift the freeze for a specific period or for a specific creditor. You’ll need to provide a PIN or password set during the freeze process.

Steps to Unfreeze with Each Bureau

• Equifax: Use the same online portal or call 1-800-349-9960.
• Experian: Log in to the Experian Freeze Center or call 1-888-397-3742.
• TransUnion: Access the TransUnion Freeze Page or call 1-888-909-8872.

Most credit bureaus process unfreeze requests almost instantly when done online or via phone.

Important Things to Keep in Mind

• Record Your PIN/Password: Each bureau will provide you with a PIN or password when you freeze your credit. Keep this information secure, as you’ll need it to lift the freeze.
• Monitor Your Credit: Freezing your credit doesn’t protect existing accounts. Use budgeting tools to track spending and spot unusual activity.
• Free for Everyone: Since 2018, freezing and unfreezing your credit has been free, thanks to federal law.

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Alternatives to a Credit Freeze

If you don’t want to freeze your credit, consider a fraud alert. A fraud alert notifies creditors to take additional steps to verify your identity before opening a new account. Fraud alerts are also free and last for one year, with the option to renew.

Take Control of Your Credit Today

A credit freeze is a powerful tool for protecting your financial well-being. Whether you’re preventing fraud or responding to identity theft, knowing how to freeze and unfreeze your credit with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion ensures you’re in control.