How to Lock Your Credit File

A lock, or security freeze, on your credit reports provides extreme protection for your credit information. With the credit freeze in place, no one will be able to open an account in your name--including you. Potential employers conducting background checks will be turned away as well. Some people use a credit freeze to ward off identity thieves who sometimes obtain reports by stealing personal information, such as Social Security numbers and driver license numbers. A security freeze may remain on your credit reports indefinitely, but may be permanently or temporarily lifted to allow you to apply for new credit.

Instructions

1

Gather personal information to prove your identity. Make a copy of your driver license, most recent bank statements, insurance policies and a recent utility bill.

2

Check for the cost to apply for a security freeze. Fees vary by state, but are usually around $10, as of 2010, according to the Equifax website. There is no charge to apply for a security freeze if you have been a victim of credit identity theft and can prove it by supplying a police report.

3

Write letters to all three credit bureaus requesting that a security freeze be placed on your credit files. Include your Social Security number, date of birth and copies of the personal information you collected in Step One. Include the proper fee for your state or apply for a free security freeze by including details of your identity theft along with the police report. Send the information to the credit bureaus by certified mail. For immediate action, call the credit bureaus and a representative will establish your identity over the phone through a series of questions about your background and credit history. You also may apply for a security freeze by visiting the credit bureau websites and finding the "Security Freeze" or similar menu tab.

Equifax
Security Freeze
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
800-685-1111
equifax.com

Experian
Security Freeze
P.O. Box 2104
Allen, TX 75013
888-397-3742
experian.com

TransUnion
Security Freeze
P.O. Box 1000
Chester, PA 19022
800-916-8800
transunion.com

4

Check with the credit bureaus by calling them one week after making your request. By law, they must place the security freeze on your account within five business days after being contacted by you. Confirm that your freeze is in place by calling the toll-free numbers for each credit reporting bureau.