What Is a Credit Freeze?
A credit freeze (also called a security freeze) is a free tool that prevents credit bureaus from releasing your credit report to new lenders. This makes it nearly impossible for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name, because lenders cannot check your credit to approve applications.
Credit Freeze vs Fraud Alert
- Credit Freeze: Completely blocks new credit applications. Most effective protection. Free. You must manually lift it when you want to apply for credit.
- Fraud Alert: Notifies lenders to take extra precautions when processing applications in your name — but does not block them. Lasts 1 year (or 7 years for extended fraud alert). Free.
A credit freeze is stronger protection. A fraud alert is more convenient if you are actively applying for credit.
How to Freeze Your Credit at All 3 Bureaus
You must freeze your credit separately at each of the three bureaus. It is free and instant online:
Equifax
- Online: equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze
- Phone: 1-800-685-1111
- Mail: Equifax Security Freeze, P.O. Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348
Experian
- Online: experian.com/freeze/center.html
- Phone: 1-888-397-3742
- Mail: Experian Security Freeze, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion
- Online: transunion.com/credit-freeze
- Phone: 1-888-909-8872
- Mail: TransUnion LLC, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016
What You Will Need
- Full legal name and current address
- Social Security Number
- Date of birth
- Proof of address (if applying by mail)
How to Temporarily Lift a Freeze
When you want to apply for credit, log into each bureau's website and temporarily lift the freeze — specify a timeframe (e.g., 3 days) or lift it permanently. This is instant online and takes effect within 1 hour. Always re-freeze after your application is processed.
Who Can Still See Your Frozen Report
Even with a freeze, the following entities can still access your credit: existing creditors, government agencies with legal authority, employers you have given written permission to, and prescreening for pre-approved offers. A freeze only blocks new lenders pulling your report for credit decisions.
For complete credit monitoring alongside your freeze, use CreditRise AI to track your credit health.