CONSUMER INFORMATION SHEET 10
4/24/08
How to “Freeze” Your Credit Files
If you live in California, you have the right to put a “security freeze” on your credit file.1 A
security freeze means that your file cannot be shared with potential creditors. A security freeze
can help prevent identity theft. Most businesses will not open credit accounts without first
checking a consumer's credit history. If your credit files are frozen, even someone who has your
name and Social Security number would probably not be able to get credit in your name.
A security freeze is free to identity theft victims who have a police report of identity theft. If you
are not an identity theft victim, it will cost you $10 to place a freeze with each of the three credit
bureaus. That’s a total of $30 to freeze your files.
How do I place a security freeze?
To place a freeze, you must write to each of the three credit bureaus. You must provide
identifying information. If you are an identity theft victim, provide a copy of your police report
(or DMV investigative report) of identity theft. Otherwise provide payment of $10 to each of the
credit bureaus. See the sample letters at the end of this sheet for addresses and what information
to include.
Can I open new credit accounts if my files are frozen?
Yes. If you want to open a new credit account or get a new loan, you can lift the freeze on your
credit file. You can lift it for a period of time. Or you can lift it for a specific creditor. After you
send your letter asking for the freeze, each of the credit bureaus will send you a Personal
Identification Number (PIN). You will also get instructions on how to lift the freeze. You can lift
the freeze by phone, using your PIN. The credit bureaus must lift your freeze within three days.
The fee for lifting the freeze temporarily is $10 for a date-range lift and $12 for a lift for a
specific creditor.
What is the difference between a fraud alert and a freeze?
A fraud alert is a special message on the report that a