Ever wake up to find someone’s opened a dozen credit cards in your name? Total nightmare! With identity theft on the rise, it's crucial to secure your financial fortress. In 2023, the U.S. saw a whopping 1.4 million cases of identity theft. So, how do you protect yourself? You guessed it—freeze your credit!
But don’t freak out—freezing your credit isn’t like putting your money in an icebox. Think of it more like placing your credit in a high-security vault with a sign that says, “Come at me, bro!”
It’s straightforward but requires contacting each of the three major credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Sure, it might feel like dumping three exes at once, but trust me, it’s worth it!
here's a quick look at what we'll cover
credit freeze vs. credit lock
A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. This tool is regulated by federal law and is often free of charge. Here's a detailed description of that a credit freeze is
A credit lock is similar to a credit freeze in that it prevents creditors from accessing your credit report. However, a credit lock:
- Service-based: Offered as a service by credit bureaus and can often be activated or deactivated quickly via an app or website.
- May have fees: Unlike a credit freeze, a credit lock may come with a fee, depending on the credit bureau's policies.
Key Differences
- Legality and Regulation: A credit freeze is regulated by federal law, making it a more formal and legally binding option. A credit lock, while effective, is a product offered by credit bureaus and is not regulated by law.
- Cost: Credit freezes are often free, whereas credit locks may incur a fee.
- Activation/Deactivation: Credit freezes require a PIN or password for activation and deactivation, which can take some time. Credit locks can be toggled on or off more conveniently through an app or website.
does freezing my credit affect my credit score?
A security freeze will NOT have any impact on your credit score or your existing credit accounts.
Instead, a security freeze serves to prevent lenders from accessing your credit file for inquiries unless you choose to temporarily unfreeze or thaw your credit before applying for credit. When unfreezing or thawing your credit file, ensure you allow enough time to complete the loan application and underwriting process effectively.
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how do i freeze my credit?
To freeze your credit, you will need to contact each of the three major credit bureaus individually:
You can freeze your credit with Experian through one of the following methods:
- Online: Quickly and easily freeze your credit file for free here>.
- Phone: Call 1-888-EXPERIAN (1-888-397-3742)
- Mail: Write to Experian Security Freeze, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013
Include the following in your request:
- Your full name including middle initial (and generation)
- Social Security number
- Complete addresses for the past two years
- Date of birth
- One copy of a government-issued ID (driver's license, state ID card, etc.)
- One copy of a utility bill, bank or insurance statement, etc.
QUICK TIP: Ensure each copy is legible, displays your name, current mailing address, and date of issue. Send copies of documents and retain the originals.
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You can freeze your credit with TransUnion through one of the following methods:
- Online: Quickly and easily freeze your credit file for free here.
- Phone: Call 800-916-8800 to use TransUnion's automated system
- Mail: Send your documents to, P.O. Box Woodlyn, PA 19094
Provide a copy of one of these documents to verify your identity:
- Social Security card
- Letter from the Social Security Administration
- Military ID
- Medicaid or Medicare card
Provide a copy of one of these documents to verify your address:
- Driver’s license
- Utility bill
- Bank or credit union statement
- Canceled check
- Pay stub
- Signed homeless shelter letter
- Prison ID letter
- Stamped post office box receipt
- Government-issued ID
- State ID card
You can freeze your credit with Equifax through one of the following methods:
- Online: Quickly and easily freeze your credit file for free here>.
- Phone: Call 888-298-0045 to use TransUnion's automated system
- Mail: Send your documents to Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348-5788
For proof of Identity make sure you have one of the following:
- Social Security Card
- Pay stub with Social Security Number
- W2 or 1099 Form
For proof of address make sure you have one of the following:
- Driver's license or state identification card
- Rental lease agreement/house deed
- Pay stub with address
- Utility or phone bill (gas, electric, water, cable, mobile)The item you select must contain your current mailing address
Psst... Need to freeze your credit fast? Do it online—it’s quick, free, and won’t impact your credit score!
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how do i unfreeze my credit? 
Unfreezing your credit is straightforward if done online. You can temporarily lift or permanently remove the freeze by contacting the credit bureaus again. You may need the PIN or password you received when you placed the freeze. Each bureau allows you to specify the duration for which you want the freeze lifted or to set a permanent removal.
Here's how to unfreeze your account with:
can I freeze my child's credit file?
Yes, you can freeze your child's credit file. To protect the identities of both you and your child who's under 18, complete the minor request form. There are certain forms of documentation you will need as part of this process.
Required Identity Verification Documents:
You will need to provide copies of one of the following to verify your identity:
- A copy of your driver's license or other government-issued identification
- A copy of your Social Security card
- A copy of your birth certificate
Required Documents to Validate Your Child's Identity:
To validate your child's identity, you will need to provide copies of both of the following:
- A copy of the child's Social Security card
- A copy of the child's birth certificate
Proof of Parental or Authorized Representation:
To prove you are the child's parent or authorized representative, you will need to provide copies of one of the following:
- A copy of the child's birth certificate
- A copy of a court order
- A copy of a lawfully executed and valid power of attorney
- A copy of a foster care certification
QUICK TIP: When submitting documents for a credit freeze, make sure that each copy is legible and displays your name, current mailing address, and the date of issue. Send copies of any documents you wish to provide and always retain your original documents.
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have more questions?
You can also always read more about Account Security and Identity Theft on the Skyla website. If you have any other questions, feel free to contact our customer service representatives by email, or give us a call at 704.375.0183.
Yanna
As the Content Specialist and author of the Learning & Guidance Center, Yanna enjoys motivating others by uncovering all that's possible in the world of finance. From financial tips and tricks to ultimate guides and comparison charts, she is obsessed with finding ways to help readers excel in their journey towards financial freedom.
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