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Essential things to know when freezing your credit report

The mere thought of having one’s identity stolen can send a shiver down the spine. Victims who have undergone identity theft suffer from numerous repercussions, even several months after the incident occurs. Moreover, the process of getting one’s name cleared and the time and effort required is extremely straining. One has to bear the brunt of a crime that was never committed by them. Thus, a large number of individuals are considering the idea of freezing one’s credit report in such cases.

The growing instances of data leaks have led data security experts to emphasize the importance of freezing your credit report. This move prevents potential lenders from being able to access the report of the credit card holder whose identity was stolen, thereby preventing the possibility of a thief from getting credit or opening a credit account, irrespective of whether they possess your personal details. With the increase in such crimes, the question of how much it would cost to freeze your credit report is bound to arise in your mind. However, the cost of freezing your credit report is not too high. Moreover, experts assert that the inconvenience of thawing the credit when giving access to a creditor or a lender is much lighter than the stress incurred when one is victimized by a data thief. Before you wonder about how to freeze your credit score, it is imperative to duly understand the process that is involved in it.

How does a credit report freeze work?
A credit report comprises of some of the most pivotal information regarding the payment pattern adapted by you. This information is closely evaluated by lenders and creditors when making a decision pertaining to the credit handling done by a holder. When one levies a freeze on their credit, lenders and creditors cannot access the credit report. A majority of the banks in the market wish to look at the credit score of a borrower and the inability to do so can lead to a denial of the application. However, a credit freeze is not a foolproof solution; this implies that certain government entities and law enforcement agencies continue to hold rights in credit reports and scores despite the freeze.

Process of freezing a credit report
It is vital to have a clear understanding about the process of freezing your credit report. The path involves communication and informing major credit bureaus. There are three major credit bureaus and one must individually inform these organizations. The credit card holder must be able to answer a list of questions pertaining to one’s identity, the reason for the freeze, and credentials that are essential to freeze and unfreeze the credit report. One may also have to provide a proof of theft, such as an identity theft report, DMV report, or a police report. There are certain measures that are lined up in the case of loss of pin and more; these bureaus will aid in the recovery of such information with the measures set in place.

One can visit the bureau or call and mail to place a security freeze on the credit report. A mail can be sent out to the bureau by writing a letter and including all the necessary attachments, i.e., the required documents. The cost to undertake a freeze on the credit report can vary from state to state. Thus, one must check the exact cost of the credit freeze by directly contacting the bureau. The cost can vary anywhere from $3 to $10 for each credit freeze, and there can be additional costs levied in the case of an “unfreeze.” Moreover, there may be some reduction in the cost for senior citizens; you must ensure to check if the same is applicable in your case.

While the thought of how to free your credit report can be intimidating, the process is clear and in place. Freezing your credit report is not a complicated process but it can take up some time. There is clear information provided by the three financial bureaus and all one must do is follow the same.

Information required to freeze your credit report
The credit bureaus will expect the credit holder to provide them with a list of requirements that include the following:

Full name of the card holder
Complete address and an address change if any
Date of birth
Social Security number
Proof of identity
Verification of the address
Payment through any of the accepted forms.

As mentioned above, the freeze on your credit report does not stand guarantee to any possible scheme that may take place in the future. It is not the ultimate measure of safety. Thus, irrespective of the credit freeze, one should be vigilant and regularly keep a close track of their financial statements. Also, in case of any suspicion, set up alerts and make sure that action is taken to avoid the unfavorable.

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