How to Freeze Credit Reports in Georgia

A credit report freeze prevents access to your credit file and your credit score. The freeze only pertains to new inquiries; existing lenders, insurance companies and law enforcement agencies still have access to both the file information and your credit score. The laws and fees for freezing credit reports vary from state to state. In Georgia, consumers must pay $3 to each of the three credit reporting agencies to initiate a freeze of their credit file. People age 65 and older or victims of identity theft can initiate a freeze for free.

Instructions

1

Make three copies of your Georgia driver's license, state identification card or other identification card issued by the government.

2

Make three copies of a current phone or utility bill referencing your name and address. This is proof of your residence.

3

Make three copies of the police report if you are a victim of identity theft. An investigative report or a complaint filed with a law enforcement agency is also acceptable.

4

Write a letter to each of the three credit reporting agencies--Equifax, Experian and TransUnion--requesting a credit report freeze. Include your full name, current address, Social Security number and date of birth. You must also reference your former address if you've moved within the past five years.

5

Compile three envelope packets containing the letter along with the copies of your identifying, residence and identity-theft information, if applicable. Include a check, money order or credit card information to cover the $3 fee in each packet if you are younger than 65 and not a victim of identity theft.

6

Mail the packets to each of the three credit reporting agencies. The addresses are as follows:

Equifax Security Freeze

P.O. Box 105788

Atlanta, GA 30348

Experian Security Freeze

P.O. Box 9554

Allen, TX 75013

TransUnion Security Freeze

P.O. Box 6790

Fullerton, CA 92834-6790