To unfreeze credit, you need to contact each of the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. You can either temporarily lift the freeze for a set period or permanently remove it. Unfreezing credit is free and can be done online, by phone, or by mail.
How to Unfreeze Your Credit
- Temporary thaw: Allows creditors to check your credit for a specified time, then the freeze resumes automatically.
- Permanent removal: The freeze is lifted indefinitely until you request a new freeze.
Contact Information and Methods
- Experian:
- Online via Experian Freeze Center (requires an account)
- Phone: (888) 397-3742
- Mail: Experian Security Freeze, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013
- Equifax:
- Online via myEquifax account
- Phone: (888) 298-0045
- Mail: Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348-5788
- TransUnion:
- Online via TransUnion Service Center or myTransUnion mobile app
- Phone: (888) 916-8800
- Mail: TransUnion, P.O. Box 160, Woodlyn, PA 19094
What You Need to Provide
- Full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and address
- Identification such as a driver’s license or utility bill may be required
Timing and Cost
- Online or phone requests must be processed within an hour.
- Mail requests may take up to three business days.
- There is no cost to freeze or unfreeze your credit under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
When to Unfreeze
You usually need to unfreeze your credit before applying for loans, credit cards, mortgages, rental applications, or other services that require a credit check. This process ensures lenders can access your credit report temporarily or permanently as needed while you maintain control over your credit information protection.
