How To Freeze Your Credit
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Identity Protection
A credit freeze (or “security freeze”) is the strongest defense against identity theft. It locks your credit file so lenders cannot see it, which means scammers cannot open new cards or loans in your name. It is free by federal law and does not affect your credit score.
Before You Start: Gather Your Info
You will need to provide the following for all three bureaus:
- Full Legal Name and Date of Birth
- Social Security Number
- Current Home Address (and any previous addresses from the last 2 years)
Step 1: Contact the “Big Three” Bureaus
You must contact all three individually. Doing just one is not enough.
| Bureau | Website (Fastest) | Phone Number |
| Equifax | equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services | 1-888-298-0045 |
| Experian | experian.com/freeze | 1-888-397-3742 |
| TransUnion | transunion.com/credit-freeze | 1-800-916-8800 |
Step 2: The Process
- Online: Create a free account at each site. Follow the prompt for “Security Freeze” or “Freeze My Credit.”
- Passwords: You will create a password or be given a PIN. Write these down and keep them in a safe, physical place. You will need them to “thaw” your credit later if you want to buy a car or get a new phone.
- Confirm: You should receive a confirmation (email or mail) from each bureau once the freeze is active.
Step 3: How to “Thaw” Your Credit
If you actually need to apply for credit (like a new mortgage or credit card):
- Log back into the websites or call the numbers above.
- Request a “Temporary Thaw.” You can set it to expire in 24 or 48 hours.
- The freeze will automatically turn back on once that time window closes.
Important Tips for 2026
- Ignore the “Locks”: Bureaus may try to sell you a “Credit Lock” for a monthly fee. Ignore this. A “Freeze” is free by law and offers the same (or better) protection.
- Mail Scams: Be wary of anyone calling you to “help” you freeze your credit for a fee. Real credit freezes are always done directly through the bureaus for $0.
