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Submit My ReportsHow to Lock or Freeze Your Credit Report
A credit freeze (also called a security freeze) is the strongest free way to lock your credit report. It stops most new lenders from pulling your file, which blocks most new-account identity theft. Freezes are free by federal law at Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, and you can lift one quickly when you need to apply for credit.
Credit freeze vs. credit lock
| Security freeze | Credit lock | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free by federal law | Often bundled with a paid monthly product |
| Protection | Your rights are set by federal law | Set by the company's own terms |
| Lifting it | Online or by phone, lifted within an hour | Usually an app toggle |
For most people, the free freeze does everything a lock does. A lock is mainly a convenience feature.
How to freeze your credit at the 3 major bureaus
You must freeze each bureau separately. Each one gives you a PIN or account login, so keep it somewhere safe. You will need it to lift the freeze later.
Step-by-step instructions are also available from the CFPB.
Your Big 3 freeze doesn't cover everything
Banks, landlords, insurers and employers often check specialty consumer reports such as ChexSystems, LexisNexis, Innovis, CoreLogic and tenant screening companies. Freezing Equifax, Experian and TransUnion does not lock these files. Each specialty agency has its own forms, ID requirements and mailing address, which is where most people give up.
Freeze 12 specialty reports in one order
FreezeReports, our sister service, prepares and mails your freeze and report requests to 12 specialty agencies, including ChexSystems, LexisNexis and Innovis. Freezes are free directly from each agency; we save you the research, forms and time. Packages from $49.
When to lift (thaw) your freeze
Before you apply for a mortgage, auto loan, credit card or apartment, ask the lender or landlord which bureau they use and lift the freeze there temporarily. Online and phone requests are processed within an hour, and you can set the freeze to return automatically after a date you choose.
Common questions
Does a credit freeze hurt my credit score?
No. A freeze does not affect your score, and you can still use your existing cards and accounts.
Can I still check my own credit with a freeze?
Yes. You can still get your own reports, and current creditors can still review your accounts.
What if someone already opened accounts in my name?
Report it at IdentityTheft.gov and see our identity theft guide. A freeze stops new accounts but does not remove existing ones.
Negative items already on your report?
A freeze protects you going forward but does not fix what is already there. BCR has helped clients remove qualifying negative items since 2008 with pay-for-deletion credit repair. You pay only for results.