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A credit freeze prevents new credit accounts from being opened in your name.
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It’s free, easy, and one of the most effective tools to fight identity theft.
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You stay in control: freezes can be lifted temporarily or permanently when you’re ready to apply for credit.
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Freezes must be placed separately with TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian for full protection.
What Is a Credit Freeze?
A credit freeze—also called a security freeze—is a free tool that locks down your credit file so lenders and companies can’t open new accounts in your name without your permission.
When active, a freeze blocks most third parties from viewing your credit report. This helps protect against fraud, especially if criminals have your personal information.
You can still use your existing credit cards and accounts with a freeze in place. And when you’re ready to apply for a loan, mortgage, or credit card, you can easily lift or remove the freeze.
How to Place a Credit Freeze with TransUnion
The fastest way to freeze your TransUnion credit file is online through the TransUnion Service Center:
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Create an account or log in with your username and password.
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Select Credit Freeze from the homepage or top menu.
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Click Add Freeze → continue.
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You’ll receive an email confirmation when your freeze is active.
From there, you can:
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Temporarily lift the freeze (ideal when applying for a car loan, mortgage, or credit card).
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Schedule a re-freeze date so protection automatically resumes.
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Remove the freeze permanently if you no longer need it.
📩 You’ll get email updates any time the freeze status changes.
Other Ways to Freeze Your Credit
By Phone
Call TransUnion at 800-916-8800. You’ll need your SSN, date of birth, and mailing address. If the system can’t verify you automatically, it will connect you to a live agent.
By Mail
Send a written request including your:
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Full name, address, and SSN
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Copies of 2 documents (one to verify identity, one to verify address)
Acceptable Identity Documents (choose one):
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Social Security card
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Military ID
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Medicare/Medicaid card
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Letter from Social Security Administration
Acceptable Address Documents (choose one):
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Driver’s license or state ID
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Utility bill
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Bank/credit union statement
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Canceled check or pay stub
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Post office box receipt
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Shelter or government-issued letter
📬 Mail requests to:
TransUnion
P.O. Box 160
Woodlyn, PA 19094
How to Lift or Remove a Credit Freeze
Your freeze stays in place until you remove or adjust it. Options include:
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Online (fastest): Log into your Service Center account.
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By phone: Call 800-916-8800.
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By mail: Send a signed request with your name, address, and SSN to the same P.O. Box listed above.
You can schedule a temporary lift up to 15 days in advance if you know you’ll be applying for credit.
Freezing a Child’s Credit File
Identity theft isn’t just an adult problem. Criminals can misuse a child’s information for years before it’s detected. Warning signs include credit offers mailed to your child or being denied for student accounts.
Parents can place a Protected Consumer Freeze on a child’s file by mail. You’ll need to provide documents proving your identity and your relationship to the child. Similar freezes are available for spouses, incapacitated adults, and deceased family members.
Why You Should Freeze Your Credit
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Peace of mind: Blocks fraudsters from opening new accounts.
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Control: You decide when and how to lift the freeze.
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Free protection: Available at no cost from all three nationwide bureaus.
⚠️ Important: You must request a freeze separately with TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian for complete protection.
Remember—a freeze doesn’t stop all forms of identity theft (like existing account misuse), but it’s one of the strongest defenses available.
For more protection tips, check out our guide on Preventing Identity Theft.
Disclosure
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. Always consult a professional advisor for your specific situation. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. No endorsement or affiliation is implied.
👉 Protect your identity today.
Monitor your free 3-bureau credit reports and scores with CreditVana and consider placing a credit freeze for extra security.
