Freezing your credit is a security measure that prevents creditors from accessing your credit report to approve new credit applications in your name. Here's how you can freeze your credit with each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
1. Equifax
Go to Equifax's Website: Visit the Equifax credit freeze page: Equifax Freeze.Sign up or Log into Your Account: If you have an account, you will need to log in. If you do not, create an account.
Request a Credit Freeze: Click on Place a Freeze in the "Security Freeze" section
Verify Your Identity: You will be prompted to answer security questions or submit identification documents.
Finish the Freeze: After you've verified your identity, you will be able to place the freeze and Equifax will send you confirmation that it is done.
2. Experian
Visit the Website of Experian: Visit the page to freeze your credit with Experian: Experian Freeze.Log in or Sign Up: If you have an Experian account, log in. Otherwise, sign up for a new one.
Freeze Option: Go to the section of Credit Freeze and click Place a Freeze.
Identity Verification: Experian will verify your identity through a series of security questions or another method.
Freeze Your Credit: Once you've verified, your credit will be frozen, and you'll get a confirmation.
3. TransUnion
TransUnion's Website: Go to the TransUnion freeze page: TransUnion Freeze.Create or Log In to Your Account: If you don't have an account, create one. If you do, log in.
Freeze Your Credit: Choose Credit Freeze from the menu, then click on Place a Freeze.
Identity Verification: Answer security questions or provide verification documents.
Verify the Freeze Once you verify the identity, then you will freeze your credit
Things to Watch Out for;
PIN or Password: If one wants to temporarily lift the credit freeze, this time they'll be provided with a PIN or password to carry out this operation. Store that information somewhere you can safely reach it.
Credit Freezes Don't Cost Any Money: freezes are free through all three.
Credit Unfreeze: You can temporarily or permanently lift the freeze at any time. Some services allow you to unfreeze your credit for a certain period or for a certain creditor.
Effect: A credit freeze bars everyone, including yourself, from accessing your credit report for new credit applications but does not affect your existing credit accounts. Neither does it have an effect on your credit score.