How to Remove a Fraud Alert From a Credit Report

Fraud alerts are useful if you have been a victim of identity theft, or if you have reason to believe you may become one. There are two types of fraud alerts: a temporary alert and a permanent alert. The temporary alert lasts for 90 days, after which, it is automatically removed. The permanent alert is not truly permanent; it lasts seven years. If you wish to remove a fraud alert from your credit report, you must submit your request in writing; fraud alerts cannot be removed online or by phone.

Instructions

1

Gather the documents needed to prove your identity to the credit bureaus. You'll need two identifying documents, such as a driver's license or state ID, U.S. passport, military ID or utility bill, showing your name and address.

2

Make photocopies of the documents. You need three copies of each (one for every credit bureau). Make sure the copies are legible.

3

Write a letter addressed to the credit bureaus. You need three letters (one for each credit bureau). Make sure the letter includes your Social Security number, full name and date of birth. Specifically state that you want to remove the fraud alert on your credit report.

4

Mail the letters with the copies of identifying documents to each of the credit bureaus. You should receive a response within 2 weeks; if you don't, call the credit bureau's fraud division to check on the status. Mail the letters to:

Experian
PO Box 9532
Allen, TX 75013
1-888-397-3742

Equifax Consumer Fraud Division
PO Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374
1-800-525-6285

Transunion
PO Box 6790
Fullerton, CA 92834
1-800-680-7289