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The Backstory
When I received the name Smith from my husband, my credit seems to have become more enticing to criminals than my previously complicated name. I have struggled with bank accounts being opened in my name, card numbers being stolen, etc. This gave me a large sense of caution walking into the world of points and miles that I still carry with me. Because of that caution, I have found a variety of ways to protect myself. One of those ways, is freezing your credit.
How much does it cost?
Freezing your credit is FREE! Every credit bureau will try to upsell you something that sounds like freezing your credit, but fear not. It is a free service and all three credit bureaus provide it. Sometimes, it just takes a little digging to find it.
How do I do it?
I am going to break this down for you by each individual credit bureau.
Experian
- Create an Experian Account
- Click on Credit >> Credit Lock
- Find the tiny hyperlink that says “security freeze”
- Click Freeze
Transunion
- Create a Transunion Service Center Free Account
- Click Credit Freeze
- Click Freeze
Equifax
- Create a FREE equifax account
- Login
- Click Manage Freeze
Each of these bureaus has different ways they hide and try to upsell things, but the important thing to remember is that you do not need to pay for these services. Also, when you go to apply for a card just do these steps in reverse. Many banks will not require all three to be unfrozen, which can protect your credit score.
