1. Read What is a Credit Freeze to gain valuable knowledge on this topic.
2. Make sure to take our recommended Pre-Freeze steps 
   
3. Now you are ready to call or visit the website of each of the FOUR (Not 3!) credit bureaus listed below:
   • Each bureau has a different process, so you will need to follow their steps.
   • Your personal identifiable information must be entered to process your request. This is a necessary evil, do not let this deter you.
   • There will be questions presented to you from your credit report to verify your identity. Some of these questions are difficult to answer. Do your best and if you are unable to answer correctly using the online tool, call the freeze hotline to complete the process with a representative.
   • Beginning September 21, 2018, there will no longer be a fee associated with freezing or unfreezing your credit.

Important Notations: 

• Unfreezing your credit is quick and simple.
• It is our experience that your credit report is unlocked immediately, causing no delays.
• Freezing your Credit Reports only prevents new accounts from being opened in your name.  It will not prevent fraud on your existing open bank or liability accounts.
• Just as with anything new, each time becomes easier and easier. So, don’t be discouraged!
• If you are lifting the freeze due to web-based technology that is requiring access to your credit report to verify your identity (ie: Credit Karma; SocialSecurity.gov; IRS etc.) you will want to perform the lift for several days, not just 24 hours because if you fail to answer correctly your own questions from your credit report when using the technology, you may be locked out of the system for 24 hours before you can try again.