Freezing Your Credit Report: A Step-by-Step Guide
## Direct Answer
To freeze your credit report, you need to contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and request a security freeze. This can be done online, by phone, or by mail.
## Step-by-Step Guide
1. **Gather required information**: You’ll need to provide your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.
2. **Contact each credit bureau**:
* Equifax: Visit [www.equifax.com](http://www.equifax.com), call 1-800-685-5000, or mail a request to Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 105069, Atlanta, GA 30348-5069.
* Experian: Visit [www.experian.com](http://www.experian.com), call 1-866-200-6020, or mail a request to Experian Information Solutions, Inc., P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013.
* TransUnion: Visit [www.transunion.com](http://www.transunion.com), call 1-800-916-8800, or mail a request to TransUnion LLC, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016.
3. **Request a security freeze**: Inform the credit bureau that you want to place a security freeze on your credit report.
4. **Receive a confirmation**: The credit bureau will send you a confirmation letter with a unique PIN or password to use when you want to lift or remove the freeze.
## Frequently Asked Questions
* **What is the cost to freeze my credit report?**: Freezing your credit report is free in most states, but some states may charge a fee, typically around $10.
* **How long does a security freeze last?**: A security freeze remains in place until you request it to be lifted or removed.
* **Can I still use credit while my report is frozen?**: Yes, you can still use existing credit accounts, but new credit applications will be blocked.
* **How do I lift or remove a security freeze?**: Contact the credit bureau and provide your unique PIN or password to lift or remove the freeze.
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