Can I Get My FICO Score if There Is a Freeze on My Credit Report?

Identity thieves can exploit your name, Social Security card and other information to take out cell phone contracts or credit cards in your name, then leave you stuck with the bill. A credit freeze blocks anyone from opening new accounts in your name, but it doesn't prevent you accessing your own credit reports or your credit score.

Credit Freeze

A credit freeze blocks businesses from accessing your credit report. If an identity thief tries to do anything with your information that requires a credit check, the check won't go through, blocking the fraud. Almost all states authorize you to get a credit freeze; some allow it at any time, while others require proof you're an identity-theft victim. In some states, you have to pay a fee to each of the major credit bureaus you ask for a freeze.

Exceptions

A credit freeze isn't absolute. Companies you're already doing business with can make credit checks on you, and some states allow landlords and potential employers to do so as well. Identity thieves also won't be affected if they apply for accounts that don't require a background check or if the creditor doesn't bother to check. Even so, the Federal Trade Commission states that a credit freeze will prevent most identity-theft scams that require opening a new line of credit.

Lifting

When you notify the three main credit bureaus--Equifax, Experian and TransUnion--that you want a freeze, they will give you an identification number. If you want someone besides yourself to access your data, you can use the number to contact the agencies and arrange a temporary credit thaw. You may have to pay for the thaw, and you may not be able to get it lifted immediately: Most states give the bureaus three days to lift the freeze.

Reporting

If you've been hit by identity theft, simply freezing your credit may not be sufficient protection. The FTC recommends you report the case to the police and obtain a report or copy of the report on the case. Contact any companies you know the thief has done business with in your name, explain the circumstances and work to close any accounts the thief opened. The police report should help you convince businesses of the circumstances.