How Long Does A Security Freeze Last?

Quick answer

A security freeze (or credit freeze) typically lasts indefinitely until you choose to lift or remove it.
You can place, temporarily lift, or permanently remove a freeze at any time.
Each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) manages its own freeze.
There is generally no cost to place, lift, or remove a security freeze.
Lifting a freeze allows specific companies to access your credit report for a limited time.
Removing a freeze permanently allows all companies to access your credit report without restriction.

Who this is for

Individuals concerned about identity theft and unauthorized credit applications.
Anyone who has experienced a data breach or has sensitive personal information compromised.
Consumers who want to proactively protect their credit from potential misuse.

What to check first (before you act)

Your primary goal

Before placing a security freeze, clarify what you aim to achieve. Is it to prevent all new credit applications? Or is it a temporary measure while you resolve an identity theft issue? Your goal will influence whether you opt for a permanent freeze or a temporary lift.

Your current financial situation

Understand your current cash flow and any immediate needs for credit. While a freeze doesn’t prevent you from accessing your own credit, it can complicate applications for loans or new credit cards. Ensure you have sufficient funds or alternative arrangements if you anticipate needing to apply for credit soon.

Your emergency fund

A robust emergency fund is crucial. While a security freeze protects against new credit, it doesn’t cover unexpected expenses. Having 3-6 months of living expenses saved can provide financial stability, allowing you to manage unforeseen events without resorting to new credit that would require lifting your freeze.

Existing debt and interest rates

Review any outstanding debts and their interest rates. A security freeze will not affect your existing accounts or payment obligations. However, if you plan to consolidate debt or refinance, you will need to temporarily lift the freeze.

Potential credit impact

Placing a security freeze does not harm your credit score. It simply restricts access to your credit report. If you are planning to apply for a mortgage, auto loan, or other significant credit, you will need to temporarily lift the freeze for the lenders involved.

Step-by-step: Placing a Security Freeze

1. Identify the credit bureaus

What to do: Determine which of the three major credit bureaus you need to contact. These are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
What “good” looks like: You have the names of all three bureaus ready.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Assuming only one bureau needs to be contacted. Avoid this by understanding that each bureau maintains a separate credit report.

2. Visit the bureaus’ websites or contact them

What to do: Go to the official website for each credit bureau or call their customer service lines. Look for sections specifically about credit freezes or security freezes.
What “good” looks like: You are on the correct, official webpage for each bureau’s freeze service.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Falling for phishing scams. Always ensure you are on the official website by typing the URL directly or using a trusted bookmark.

3. Gather necessary personal information

What to do: Have your Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and potentially other identifying information ready. You may also need proof of address, like a utility bill.
What “good” looks like: You have all required documents and information at hand.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Being unprepared with documents. Avoid this by checking the specific requirements for each bureau beforehand.

4. Submit your freeze request

What to do: Follow the online or phone instructions to submit your request for a security freeze with each bureau.
What “good” looks like: You receive a confirmation or reference number for each request.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Not completing the process for all three bureaus. Avoid this by ensuring you get confirmation from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

5. Receive confirmation and PIN/password

What to do: After submitting your request, each bureau will send you a confirmation, often including a Personal Identification Number (PIN) or password. Keep this secure.
What “good” looks like: You have a secure PIN or password for each bureau’s freeze.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Losing your PIN/password. Store it in a safe, memorable place, separate from your personal documents.

6. Understand the freeze is active

What to do: Recognize that your credit report is now locked. New lenders cannot access it without you temporarily lifting the freeze.
What “good” looks like: You understand the implications and feel confident in your protection.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Thinking the freeze prevents all credit activity. It mainly stops new credit applications.

7. Note the duration (indefinite)

What to do: Understand that the freeze remains in place until you actively choose to lift or remove it.
What “good” looks like: You know the freeze is permanent until you change it.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Believing there’s a time limit. There isn’t; the freeze lasts indefinitely.

8. Know how to temporarily lift the freeze

What to do: When you need to apply for credit, contact each bureau to temporarily lift the freeze. You’ll need your PIN/password. You can usually specify a date range.
What “good” looks like: You can easily access your credit report when needed.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Forgetting to re-freeze after the lift period. Avoid this by setting a reminder to re-freeze your credit.

9. Know how to permanently remove the freeze

What to do: If you no longer wish to have a freeze, contact each bureau with your PIN/password to request its permanent removal.
What “good” looks like: Your credit report is accessible to all entities without restriction.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Not realizing removal is a separate action from lifting. Ensure you explicitly request removal if that’s your goal.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Not freezing all three credit bureaus	Unauthorized credit applications can still be opened using the bureaus you didn’t freeze.	Place a freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Losing your PIN or password	Inability to lift or remove the freeze, hindering legitimate credit applications.	Store your PIN/password securely in a safe place and consider a password manager.
Forgetting to re-freeze after a temporary lift	Leaving your credit vulnerable to unauthorized access after a legitimate application.	Set calendar reminders or alarms to re-apply the freeze immediately after your lending needs are met.
Assuming a freeze prevents all identity theft	While it stops new credit, it doesn’t prevent other forms of identity theft like medical or employment fraud.	Combine freezes with other identity protection measures and monitor your accounts.
Not understanding the difference between lifting and removing	Lifting is temporary; removal is permanent. You might unintentionally leave your credit open if you only lift it.	Clearly decide if you want a temporary or permanent change and communicate that to the bureaus.
Believing a freeze costs money	Most states have laws prohibiting fees for placing, lifting, or removing freezes.	Check the official website of each credit bureau; there should be no charge.
Providing incorrect information during the freeze process	Your request may be denied, leaving your credit unprotected.	Double-check all personal details and ensure you have necessary supporting documents.
Not informing family members of a freeze (if applicable)	If you are an authorized user or joint account holder, they might face issues if they need to access credit.	Communicate your freeze status to anyone who might need to access your credit report on your behalf.
Relying solely on a freeze for identity protection	A freeze is a powerful tool, but it’s one part of a comprehensive strategy.	Supplement freezes with credit monitoring, fraud alerts, and regular review of financial statements.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

If you are concerned about identity theft and have not experienced it, then place a security freeze because it is a proactive and free measure to prevent unauthorized credit accounts.
If you have experienced identity theft or a significant data breach, then place a security freeze immediately because it is a critical step to stop further fraudulent activity.
If you need to apply for a new loan or credit card, then temporarily lift the security freeze for the specific bureaus involved because lenders require access to your credit report.
If you have lifted a freeze for a specific transaction, then remember to re-apply the freeze afterward because leaving it lifted leaves your credit exposed.
If you are an authorized user on someone else’s account or have joint accounts, then consider discussing security freeze implications with them because it might affect their ability to access credit.
If you lose your freeze PIN or password, then contact the credit bureau immediately to initiate their recovery process because you cannot manage your freeze without it.
If you want to permanently stop all credit reporting access, then choose to remove the security freeze because lifting is temporary, while removal is permanent.
If you are unsure about the process or need help, then consult the official websites of Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion because they provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
If you are a victim of identity theft and need to file a police report, then do so before or during the freeze process because it can be a requirement for certain fraud resolutions.
If you are considering a freeze for a minor, then research the specific laws and procedures for child security freezes in your state because rules can vary.

FAQ

A security freeze typically lasts indefinitely until you actively choose to lift or remove it. It remains in place to protect your credit from unauthorized access.

Is there a cost to place or remove a security freeze?

Generally, no. In most U.S. states, placing, temporarily lifting, or permanently removing a security freeze is free of charge. Check with each credit bureau for their specific policies.

Do I need to freeze my credit with all three bureaus?

Yes, it is highly recommended. Each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) maintains a separate credit report, so you must place a freeze with each one to ensure comprehensive protection.

What happens if I need to apply for credit while my freeze is active?

You will need to temporarily lift the freeze with the relevant credit bureau(s). You can usually specify a date range for the lift, and then you can re-apply the freeze.

Can a security freeze affect my credit score?

No, placing a security freeze does not impact your credit score. It simply restricts access to your credit report, which is a protective measure.

How do I get my PIN or password for my security freeze?

When you place a freeze, each credit bureau will provide you with a unique PIN or password. It is crucial to keep this information secure, as you will need it to lift or remove the freeze.

Can I freeze credit for my child?

Yes, you can place a security freeze on a minor’s credit report. This is often called a child security freeze or child credit freeze. The process and requirements may vary slightly by state and credit bureau.

What’s the difference between lifting and removing a freeze?

Lifting a freeze is temporary, allowing access for a specified period or for a specific company. Removing a freeze is permanent, meaning your credit report will be fully accessible without restriction until you decide to freeze it again.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

Specific state laws: While federal law allows for security freezes, specific regulations, requirements, or exceptions may vary by state. Research your state’s consumer protection laws.
Fraud alerts: This article focuses on security freezes. Learn about fraud alerts, which are another tool to protect your credit, and how they differ from freezes.
Identity theft recovery steps: If you are already a victim of identity theft, this page provides prevention. You may need to consult resources on how to recover from identity theft.
Credit monitoring services: While a freeze is proactive, credit monitoring services actively track your credit for suspicious activity. Explore if these services are right for you.
Comprehensive identity protection: A security freeze is one component of identity protection. Consider other measures like secure password practices, monitoring financial statements, and being wary of phishing attempts.