Credit freeze checklist
A credit freeze is free. It stops a thief from opening new credit in your name. Freeze each of the three big credit bureaus, one at a time.
What does a freeze do?
It stops lenders from seeing your credit file when someone applies for new credit, so a thief can't open an account in your name. It doesn't hurt your credit score, and it doesn't close the accounts you already have. Companies you already do business with can still check your file. It's free, and it stays on until you lift it.
The checklist
A freeze at one bureau doesn't freeze the others. Tick each one when it's done. You can print this page.
Want to go further?
These smaller companies also keep files. Freezing them is optional and free.
- Freeze your credit at Innovis (the fourth bureau)
- Freeze your NCTUE report (phone, power and utility accounts)
- Freeze your LexisNexis Risk Solutions file
- Freeze your ChexSystems report (bank accounts)
How fast does it work?
By federal law, a freeze you ask for online or by phone must be in place within one business day (three business days by mail). When you need credit, a lift asked for online or by phone must happen within one hour.
Applying for a loan or card? Ask the lender which bureau it checks, and lift the freeze only there.
Helping a parent who can't do it themselves?
For a child under 16, or an adult with a court-appointed guardian or conservator, the guardian or someone holding a valid power of attorney can place the freeze. You send proof of who you are and proof of your authority, such as a court order or the power of attorney. It's free. Each bureau has its own process, and some only take these requests by mail.
If your parent can still decide for themselves, sit with them and do the checklist together on their computer.
Is a fraud alert the same thing?
No. A fraud alert is a separate, free step. A first alert lasts one year, and you only need to contact one bureau, which tells the other two. A freeze is what stops lenders from seeing your file when someone applies for new credit.