Credit Freeze

A credit freeze (also called a security freeze) locks access to your credit report, making it nearly impossible for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Best of all, it is completely free at all three major bureaus. With data breaches happening at an alarming rate, placing a freeze is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself — and it does not affect your credit score. When you are ready to apply for a mortgage, you simply lift the freeze temporarily at each bureau, then refreeze when your application is complete.

The Three Credit Bureaus

What You Should Know

• Data breaches are not rare events — they are happening constantly. Major retailers, healthcare systems, financial institutions, and government agencies have all been compromised. If your personal information has ever been exposed, a credit freeze is one of the most powerful tools you have to prevent someone from using it.
• Identity theft through fraudulent credit applications is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the country. A freeze stops it cold — no lender can access your credit file to open a new account without your explicit permission.
• Freezing your credit is completely free at all three bureaus and does not affect your credit score in any way. There is no downside to having one in place.
• When you are ready to apply for a mortgage, you must temporarily lift the freeze at all three bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — because lenders typically pull all three reports. A temporary lift usually takes effect within one hour online.
• Contact me before lifting your freeze so we can time it precisely with your loan application — then refreeze immediately after. I will walk you through every step.

Frequently Asked Questions