A TransUnion freeze is one of the most effective ways to block unauthorized access to your credit report and protect yourself from identity theft. When your TransUnion credit file is frozen, lenders cannot view your report, which prevents criminals from opening new accounts in your name. In this guide, you’ll learn what a credit freeze is, why it matters, and how to freeze, lift, or unfreeze your TransUnion report.
Key Takeaways
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A TransUnion credit freeze restricts access to your credit report and helps prevent identity theft.
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Freezing, lifting, or removing your freeze is always free.
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You can manage your freeze online, by phone, or by mail.
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A freeze does not affect your credit score or existing accounts.
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Lenders cannot access your report unless you temporarily lift or permanently remove the freeze.
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A freeze at TransUnion only protects your TransUnion report—you must freeze your credit at all three bureaus.
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Online and phone freeze requests typically take effect immediately.
What Is a TransUnion Freeze?
A TransUnion freeze blocks most third parties—including lenders, credit card companies, and service providers—from accessing your credit report. This prevents unauthorized accounts from being opened because nearly all lenders require a credit check before approving new credit.
How a Credit Freeze Works
Once your report is frozen:
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New lenders cannot access your TransUnion report.
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Existing creditors can still view your account for updates or risk review.
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Government agencies with a valid reason (such as court orders or fraud investigations) may still obtain your report.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a credit freeze is one of the strongest tools consumers can use to prevent identity thieves from opening fraudulent accounts.
Freeze vs. Fraud Alert
A freeze restricts access entirely, while a fraud alert simply warns creditors to verify your identity. A freeze provides stronger protection.
Why a TransUnion Freeze Matters
Protects Against Identity Theft
Criminals often use stolen Social Security numbers to open credit cards, personal loans, or utilities. A freeze stops them because lenders cannot complete a credit check.
Fully Free and Easy to Manage
Federal law requires all credit freezes to be free. You can freeze or unfreeze your account at any time, without penalties or fees.
Does Not Affect Your Credit Score
Placing a freeze has no impact on your credit score or existing accounts. It simply prevents new credit from being opened without your permission.
How to Place, Lift, or Remove a TransUnion Freeze
How to Place a TransUnion Credit Freeze
You can freeze your credit in three ways:
1. Online (Fastest Method)
Use your TransUnion Service Center account:
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Visit the TransUnion freeze center online.
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Log in or create a TransUnion freeze account.
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Follow the prompts to place a freeze instantly.
This method offers the quickest freeze and unfreeze actions.
2. By Phone
Call the TransUnion freeze phone number:
800-916-8800 (automated system).
You will verify your identity and request a freeze over the phone. This also works for temporary lifts.
3. By Mail
Send a request with your:
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Full name
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Address
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Date of birth
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Social Security Number
Mail to:
TransUnion
P.O. Box 160
Woodlyn, PA 19094
Include one ID document (driver’s license) and two proof-of-residency documents (utility bill, bank statement) for faster processing.
Protected Consumer Freeze (Minors & Incapacitated Adults)
Parents or legal guardians can request a Protected Consumer Freeze for:
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Minors age 15 or younger
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Adults who are legally incapacitated
This must be done by mail with documentation proving legal authority.
How to Temporarily Lift or Unfreeze Your TransUnion Report
A freeze can be lifted temporarily or removed permanently.
Temporary Lift
Use this option when applying for:
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A loan
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A credit card
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An apartment rental
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New insurance
You can set a specific date range for the lift. The freeze automatically reinstates when the time expires.
Permanent Removal
If you no longer want your report frozen:
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Log into your TransUnion freeze login account
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Call the automated line
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Send a mail request
Online and phone methods take effect almost immediately. Mail requests typically take up to three business days after receipt.
Tip: Check Which Bureau the Lender Uses
Before lifting your freeze, ask your lender which credit bureau they will check. Sometimes you only need to unfreeze one bureau, not all three.
Examples and Scenarios
Example: Freezing Credit After Losing Your Wallet
If your wallet is stolen and your Social Security card is inside, freezing your TransUnion credit report stops anyone from opening fraudulent accounts.
Example: Applying for a Home Loan
Your lender uses TransUnion for credit checks. You temporarily lift your TransUnion freeze for 48 hours, allowing the lender access only during that window.
Comparison Table: Freeze vs. No Freeze
| Feature | With TransUnion Freeze | Without Freeze |
|---|---|---|
| Lenders can check your credit | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Identity thieves can open new accounts | ❌ No | ❌ Less likely, but possible |
| Affects credit score | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Cost | Free | Free |
| Required to lift before applying for credit | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Mistakes to Avoid With a TransUnion Freeze
1. Freezing Only One Bureau
A TransUnion freeze only protects your TransUnion report. You must freeze Equifax and Experian separately.
2. Forgetting Your PIN or Login
In many cases, you’ll need your freeze credentials to lift or remove the freeze. Store them securely.
3. Not Lifting the Freeze Before a Credit Application
If you forget to lift your freeze, your application may be delayed or denied.
4. Using the Wrong TransUnion Freeze Number
Use the official number:
800-916-8800
Third-party numbers can be scams.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of a TransUnion Freeze?
1. Strong, Ongoing Identity Protection
A freeze creates a permanent shield against unauthorized access. It is one of the simplest long-term tools for financial protection.
2. Peace of Mind
Knowing your credit report is secure reduces the stress of data breaches or lost personal documents.
3. Easy Access and Control
You can manage your freeze at any time, making it a flexible security measure.
The FTC reports that millions of Americans experience identity theft each year, making freezes an important layer of defense.
Conclusion + Next Steps
A TransUnion freeze is a free, powerful way to secure your credit report and protect your financial identity. Whether you’re preventing fraud, responding to a breach, or simply tightening your security, freezing your TransUnion credit file is a smart move. Take the next step by freezing your credit at all three bureaus and storing your login details safely. With this simple action, you gain long-term protection and control over your personal information.
FAQs
How do I unfreeze my account at TransUnion?
You can unfreeze your TransUnion account online, by phone, or by mail. Online and phone methods take effect almost immediately.
What can someone do with your SSN if your credit is frozen?
A freeze blocks new credit accounts, but someone could still attempt tax fraud, employment fraud, or benefits fraud. Monitor your personal information regularly.
Can I unfreeze all three credit bureaus at once?
No. You must unfreeze each bureau individually—TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian.
Is the TransUnion credit freeze legitimate?
Yes. It is a secure, federally supported method for protecting your credit file and preventing identity theft.
Does a TransUnion freeze affect my credit score?
No. A freeze does not impact your credit score or your existing accounts.
