Debt, Credit & Consumer Protection · Surprise rank #112
Freeze All 3 Credit Files for Free—and Lift the Freeze Free Whenever You Need
Federal law makes credit freezes free for everyone. A freeze can block most new-credit accounts from being opened using your credit file.
Who
Any consumer who wants to reduce the risk of new-account identity theft.
What to do
Start here: Contact Equifax, Experian and TransUnion individually and freeze each credit file. Lift only the bureau a legitimate lender needs when possible.
Eligibility: Anyone can freeze their credit for any reason. You must place the freeze separately with each of the three nationwide credit bureaus.
What you get
A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report until you temporarily lift or remove it.
Benefit: Free placement, lifting and removal of freezes at Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
Possible value: No direct cash payment; it can prevent costly identity-theft damage and avoids paid freeze services.
Good to know
Important: A credit freeze does not affect your credit score and lasts until you lift it. It is different from a fraud alert, which can be placed through one bureau.
Availability: Active permanent consumer protection
Why people miss it: Credit-monitoring companies sell identity products, which can make a legally free credit freeze sound like a paid service.
Sources reviewed: Aug 10, 2026