What is a Credit Freeze?
A credit freeze, also known as a security freeze, restricts access to your credit report. This means that creditors cannot view your credit report, preventing them from approving any new credit accounts in your name—whether fraudulent or legitimate.
If you need to open a new account or apply for credit, you can temporarily or permanently lift the freeze to allow lenders to access your credit files.
How to Place/Remove a Credit Freeze
You can place or lift a credit freeze on your report at no cost by contacting each of the three major credit reporting agencies listed below. Follow the below links to the providers Credit Freeze information page.
How Long Do Freeze Requests Take?
By Mail: The freeze must be lifted within three business days.
Placing a Freeze:
Online or by Phone: The credit reporting agencies must freeze your report within one business day.
By Mail: The agencies must freeze your report within three business days.
Lifting a Freeze:
Online or by Phone: The freeze must be lifted within one hour.
