How to Freeze Credit

Identity theft in the United States is a major problem that could happen to anyone. One of the reasons credit information is accessible to thieves is because not all credit card companies and merchants sufficiently protect your personal financial information, especially when you purchase items online. A recommended step to prevent identity theft is to issue a security freeze, which will lock access to your credit information. Placing a security freeze does not affect your credit score--it only stops most people from being able to gain access to your credit file. The process of obtaining a freeze varies among states and crediting agencies. In a study conducted by the FTC, Arizona has one of the highest percentages of identity theft. Therefore, this article focuses on Arizona's credit freeze instructions.

Instructions

1

Prepare three envelopes with the addresses for the three major credit-reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. The address for Equifax is P.O. Box 105788 Atlanta, GA 30348. The address for Experian is P.O. Box 9554 Allen, TX 75013. The address for TransUnion is P.O. Box 6790 Fullerton, CA 92834.

2

Include in the envelope a copy of the police report claiming identity theft. If you are not a victim of identity theft, you will be charged a $5 fee from each credit-reporting agency.

3

Write a letter that includes your full name (middle initial and suffix, if any), any name previously used, current address, Social Security number and date of birth. Make three copies of this letter and send one to each of the credit-reporting agencies.

4

Make three copies of your state identification card. This includes driver's licenses and military identification cards. Include one photocopy in each envelope.

5

Include a check or money order in each envelope in the amount of $5 if you are not a victim of identity theft or cannot provide proof of identity theft. Make the checks payable to each of the credit-reporting agencies.

6

Mail the letters. You should receive a credit freeze confirmation letter from each credit reporting agency in about 10 business days. Included in the letter will be a personal identification number that gives you access to your account in case you want to apply for future credit. The freeze should be in effect until you request it be removed.