In today’s digital world, identity theft ranks as one of the fastest-growing crimes. This includes fraudsters opening loans, credit cards, or even selling property under your name. A powerful way to block them? A credit freeze.

What Is a Credit Freeze (and What Doesn't It Do)?

A credit freeze—also known as a security freeze—is a free and legal way to block new credit accounts from being opened in your name, whether valid or fraudulent. Under federal law, you're required to freeze each of the three major credit bureaus separately: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

• What freezing does: It prevents any new credit inquiries while the freeze is active.
• What it does not do: It won’t impact your credit score, nor block existing accounts, credit inquiries for employment, or government-related checks.

You can request a credit freeze by phone, mail, or—most easily—online. The bureaus must comply within one business day if requested digitally, or within three business days if mailed.

If you need to apply for credit—like a mortgage—you can lift (or “thaw”) the freeze temporarily or permanently. Bureau policy varies, but most should allow this within one hour online or by phone.

Why Freezing Your Credit Makes Sense

Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft

A freeze stops criminals from opening new accounts in your name—even if they have your personal data. This protection is especially relevant in light of recent data breaches.

While paid options like credit locks are available, a credit freeze is completely free and backed by federal law.

What Homebuyers Need to Know

Credit freezes can complicate your mortgage process. If your credit is frozen—even with just one bureau—lenders may be unable to run the tri-merge credit report needed for conforming loans. Before applying for a mortgage, remember to:

1. Temporarily lift your freeze at all three bureaus using your PIN or password.
2. Coordinate carefully—lifts can take effect quickly online, but you'd want it done well ahead of loan processing.
3. Avoid delays by planning this step in advance.

Quick How-To: Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit

To Freeze Credit:

• Visit each bureau’s website (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and either create or log in to your account.
• Provide ID info (SSN, driver’s license, etc.) and submit your freeze request.
• You’ll receive a PIN or password—store it safely.

How to Freeze Your Credit With All 3 Credit Bureaus
Experian	TransUnion	Equifax
Online 888-397-3742 Experian Security Freeze P.O. Box 9554 Allen, TX 75013	Online 800-916-8800 TransUnion P.O. Box 160 Woodlyn, PA 19094	Online 888-298-0045 Equifax Information Services LLC P.O. Box 105788 Atlanta, GA 30348-5788

 

To Unfreeze (Thaw Credit):

• Log in or call the bureau and use your PIN to lift the freeze temporarily or permanently.

The Bottom Line

A credit freeze is a free, easy, and effective way to protect your financial identity. But if you're buying or refinancing a home, coordinating a timely thaw is essential to keeping your transaction moving smoothly.

Need help understanding how a credit freeze might impact your real estate plans? Give us a call—we’re happy to guide you through every step of the home buying or selling process.