![]() ![]() Other security measures Fraud alertĪfter you’ve lifted your credit freeze, you’ll want to continue keeping tabs on your account activity. You’ll need to provide information verifying your identity and will have the option to receive a one-time PIN by text message or answer questions based on information in your Equifax credit report for identity verification. All you have to do is call 1-(888) 298-0045 to start the process. You can also freeze your credit with Equifax over the phone. A credit freeze helps prevent fraudulent account creation, but it won’t protect your current cards. Keep in mind that when you place a credit freeze, it doesn’t stop fraudsters from making charges if they have access to your existing accounts. If you need to request a credit freeze for your child, another adult for whom you have power of attorney or a military service member, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity and theirs, along with documentation showing that you’re authorized to handle their account. You’ll then be able to temporarily and permanently remove the block via the website when you’re ready. The easiest way to freeze your credit with Equifax is to create an online account and request the freeze through the bureau’s website. You will not have to pay for a credit freeze with Equifax, Experian or TransUnion. Credit freeze equifax free#How much does a credit freeze cost?Ĭredit freezes are free to request and remove. ![]() But you should know that to really safeguard against hackers, you’ll need to request freezes with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). Placing a freeze is a fairly straightforward process. As for new creditors, they won’t be able to view that data and use it to open new loans or lines of credit either. But they won’t be able to open new credit lines in your name as long as the freeze is in place. Your current creditors can still access the file as it relates to your existing loans and creditors. Without those pieces of data, they won’t be able to approve you for a new account, which means that fraudsters trying to use your information will be stopped in their tracks.Įssentially, a credit freeze locks your credit file when it comes to new accounts. But you can protect yourself from identity theft by placing a credit freeze on your file.Ī credit freeze prevents lenders from pulling your credit report. ![]() It’s worth noting that a credit freeze will not affect your credit score.Many factors affect your credit score - new accounts, available credit, on-time payments - and all of them can be hijacked by fraudsters. Credit monitoring services keep an eye on your credit report and immediately alert you to any signs of unusual activity. Initial fraud alerts last 90 days and extended fraud alerts can last up to seven years. This means that creditors are required to confirm that it’s really you before extending credit. A fraud alert is an extra step to secure your credit and your identity. There are some options before resorting to this measure. It can become a hassle if you’re trying to rent a new apartment, apply for a job or even set up utility services. Alternatives to Freezing Your Creditįreezing your credit is often a last resort because it can prevent you from completing many financial activities. You can also freeze your credit over the phone via an automated system or by speaking to a customer service representative by calling 1-88. After setting up an account, you can freeze and unfreeze credit, for yourself or a loved one, with the click of a button. The quickest way to add a security freeze to your account with TransUnion is online or via the TransUnion mobile app. If you prefer to contact Experian by phone, call 1-88 (EXPERIAN). Experian also offers information and resources so that you can learn more about freezing your credit before initiating the action. You’ll have four options: adding a security freeze, lifting a freeze, retrieving your PIN number or granting a creditor one-time access to your credit file. Contacting Experianįreeze your credit 24/7 at Experian’s online Freeze Center. Speak to a person at Equifax by calling their Customer Care line at 1-88. Equifax also accepts requests via mail or phone. Browse the website to check out other Equifax identity protection services to further protect your credit. Parents and legal guardians are also able to freeze credit accounts for minors under 16 or incapacitated adults. In just a few minutes, your account will be secure. To do it online, you’ll need to create an account first. Equifax makes it easy to freeze your credit on the company’s website. ![]()
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