How to Add Fraud Alert to Equifax

If you suspect you may have been a victim of identity theft, you may want to add a fraud alert to your Equifax credit report. Equifax, one of the three major credit bureaus, allows consumers to place fraud alerts on their credit reports for free. A fraud alert will send up a "red flag" to a potential creditor or lender, and cause them to pursue additional verification (to make sure it's you--not someone else--who's requesting credit in your name). There are two types of fraud alerts; a temporary alert (90 days) and an extended alert (seven years).

Instructions

Temporary Fraud Alert

1

Determine how you want to file your fraud alert. You can add a fraud alert to your Equifax credit report online or by telephone.

2

Visit the Equifax Alerts page (https://www.alerts.equifax.com) and complete the application. Click "Submit" to file your fraud alert online.

3

Call Equifax by telephone to file your fraud alert. Equifax's automated fraud alert number is 1-800-525-6285. Follow the voice prompts to file your fraud alert.

Extended Fraud Alert

4

Make photocopies of the documents required to prove your identity and address. To prove your identity, you can use your social security card, paycheck stub with your social security number or your most recent W2.

To prove your address, choose from your driver's license, residence rental agreement (or house deed) or paycheck stub showing your address.

5

Download and print the Equifax Extended Fraud Alert form. Visit the Resource section to download the PDF file. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view and print the document.

6

Fill out the form completely. Mail the form, along with the required documents, to:

Equifax Information Services, LLC
PO Box 105069
Atlanta, GA 30348-5069

You can also fax the documents and form. Fax them to: (888) 826-0597