A credit freeze restricts access to your credit file, making it much harder for an identity thief (or you) to open most new credit accounts until you lift it. It's free, it's reversible, and it's one of the strongest fraud protections you have.
How to do it
- Contact each of the three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) separately; a freeze at one doesn't cover the others.
- You'll set up a PIN or account you'll use to lift the freeze later.
- Schedule a temporary lift for a set period when you actually need new credit, after which the freeze resumes on its own. If you fully remove the freeze instead, it won't re-freeze automatically; you'd re-apply it yourself.
When it's worth it
If you've been through a data breach, suspect identity theft, or just want a strong default, a freeze is a sensible move. It doesn't affect your score, and it doesn't stop you from using the credit you already have.
Common questions
What's the difference between a freeze and a fraud alert?
A freeze restricts access to your file, making it much harder for anyone to open new credit until you lift it; a fraud alert simply asks lenders to verify your identity first. A freeze is stronger, an alert is lighter, and you can use both at once.
Is a credit "lock" the same as a freeze?
They have a similar effect, but a lock is usually an app-based product that can carry a fee or terms, while a freeze is free and backed by federal law. For most people the free freeze does the job.
How do I apply for a loan or card while my credit is frozen?
Temporarily lift the freeze before you apply, either for a set window or with the specific bureau the lender will pull, and it re-freezes afterward. You keep the PIN or login you set up for exactly this.
Should I freeze my children's credit?
It's worth doing, since children are common identity-theft targets and rarely notice for years. As a parent or legal guardian you can request a freeze even if your child doesn't have a credit file yet; the bureau will generally create a protected record so it can place the freeze. Each bureau's process and required documents differ, so plan to contact all three.
Does a freeze fix errors that are already on my report?
No. A freeze only blocks new accounts going forward; anything already on your file still has to be disputed. It's protection against future fraud, not a cleanup tool. For the cleanup side, Solid Credit reads your report and flags potential errors, so you can see what's worth disputing.
