![]() ![]() If your child is still a minor, one way to protect them from identity theft is to freeze their files until they come of age. Is Freezing Your Child’s Credit a Good Idea? In these situations, credit freezes are vital to protect your social security number. ![]() You should also consider freezing your credit if you experience a data breach or identity theft. Since freezing and unfreezing your credit is free, you can do so as many times and for as long as you wish. If you are not actively shopping for a new credit card or a loan, it may be wise to freeze your credit. We encourage you to contact the HSC Wealth Advisors team if you do not see an answer to your question. The following are frequently asked questions and answers regarding freezing credit. The policy may vary depending on the bureau, so ensure you understand your options before starting the process. If you do not want to unfreeze your account indefinitely, you can choose to unfreeze it for a specific time, like a day or a week. You can use the same phone numbers and web pages you used to freeze your account to unfreeze it. You receive unexplained bills or collection notices to your address in your name or someone else’s.You do not recognize new credit accounts or inquiries on a recent credit report.You see suspicious activity on your account.Some additional reasons to freeze your credit are: If you experience identity theft or multiple fraud attempts, a freeze may be necessary to keep your information safe. Copy of a military ID, driver’s license, or passportĮach major credit bureau can provide you with the information you’ll need to freeze your credit.Copies of tax documents, invoices, or bank statements.Proof of your address, like a utility bill.Your credit freeze process may also require: How you initiate the freeze, whether online, by phone, or by mail, may impact the information you need as well. Each credit bureau has its own requirements, but you can reliably expect to need the following: It is essential to gather all necessary documents before starting the credit freeze process to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible. TransUnion: Freeze your credit with TransUnion online or by calling 88.Experian: Call 88 or go online to freeze your credit with Experian.Equifax: To freeze your credit with Equifax, call 80 or complete the process online.To freeze your credit, you will need to individually contact the three major credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion - and request the pause: Not having access to authorized checks can complicate the application process for credit cards or loans, as you will need to remove the credit freeze before moving forward. Since all credit applications begin by looking at your credit score and report, a credit freeze will prevent cybercriminals from opening unauthorized accounts in your name.īefore issuing a credit freeze, it’s essential to understand that this process freezes both authorized and unauthorized credit checks. Placing a freeze on your credit is an excellent method of identity theft protection. When you freeze your credit, it prevents anyone from accessing information such as credit reports and social security information until you unfreeze your account. What Are Credit Freezes?Ĭredit freezes provide protection against identity theft and fraud. Freezing your credit prevents unauthorized personnel from establishing new credit, loans, or services in your name. One way to enhance credit security is by freezing your credit. Keeping your credit safe from cybercriminals is essential to protect your current finances and future loan applications. ![]()
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