How to Place a Credit Alert

A credit alert, also called a fraud alert, prevents criminals from opening more credit in your name. Placing a fraud alert on your account is relatively easy. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), you can contact any one of the major credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax or Experian) to place the fraud alert. The company you contact is required to report the alert to the other two credit bureaus, which will also place an alert on your account.

Instructions

1

Call TransUnion at 800-680-7289, Experian at 888-Experian or Equifax at 800-525-6285. Ask the company to place a fraud alert on your account. A fraud alert lasts for 90 days, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

2

Wait for written confirmation. After you've requested a fraud alert, the bureau will report the request to the other two credit bureaus. All three credit bureaus will send you written confirmation of your request.

3

Follow up with the credit bureaus. If you haven't received written confirmation within 30 days, contact each credit bureau individually to check on the fraud alert status. The company will confirm if the alert was processed correctly and should re-send confirmation of your request.

4

Decide if you want to extend your fraud alert. If you've been the victim of identity theft, you are entitled to file an extended fraud alert. This fraud alert will stay on your credit file for seven years. If you decide to remove a fraud alert, you'll need to contact all three credit bureaus and request that the alert be removed. Proof of identity, such as social security number, address and other personal information, will be required.