How to Remove a Fraud Alert
A fraud alert is a powerful tool that protects you when your personal information has been compromised. It notifies lenders and creditors that they must take extra steps to confirm your identity before approving new credit. While this is extremely useful when you’re dealing with identity theft, there may come a time when you no longer need the alert—such as after your situation is resolved or when you want to apply for new credit.
Removing a frud alert is a straightforward process, but each credit bureau handles the removal a little differently. Below is a complete guide to removing a fraud alert from TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax, including detailed steps and additional tips to ensure your request goes smoothly.
Removing a Fraud Alert from TransUnion
TransUnion gives you the option to remove a fraud aleart online or by phone. If you already have a TransUnion account, this is often the simplest and fastest way to remove the alert.
To remove a fraud alert online:
- Log in to your TransUnion account.
If you don’t have one yet, you can create it using your personal information. - Navigate to the “Credit Report” tab.
This is where you’ll find tools related to managing your personal credit file. - Click “Dispute” or a similar link.
TransUnion updates their interface occasionally, but you’ll always find a section that allows you to manage alerts and disputes. - Select “Add, Modify, or Remove a Potential Fraud Alert.”
This takes you directly to the management area. - Click “Continue.”
- Choose “Remove.”
- Click “Submit.”
- Confirm that the fraud alert has been removed.
You may receive a confirmation email or message through your TransUnion dashboard.
If you prefer to handle this by phone, or if you run into any issues online, you can call TransUnion directly at:
TransUnion Fraud Alert Removal: (800) 916-8800
A representative will verify your identity and remove the alert for you.
Removing a Fraud Alert from Experian
Experian allows you to remove alert online, by upload, or by mail. Their process involves verifying your identity to ensure that no one else is trying to remove the alert without your permission.
To remove a fraud alert online:
- Visit the Experian Fraud Alert Center.
- Click “Remove a fraud alert.”
- Complete the identity verification form.
You will need personal details such as your full name, Social Security number, and current address. - Upload the completed form to Experian’s secure upload page.
If you prefer to mail your request, Experian also accepts alert removal by mail.
To remove a fraud alert by mail:
- Print and complete Experian’s fraud alert removal form.
- Include a copy of a government-issued ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
- Include a copy of a utility bill, bank statement, or insurance statement showing your current mailing address.
- Mail everything to:
Experian
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, TX 75013
Once Experian receives your request, they will review the documents, process the removal, and send you a confirmation.
Removing a Fraud Alert from Equifax
Equifax also allows alert removal by phone or by mail. They require identity verification to prevent unauthorized removal.
To remove a fraud alert by phone:
Equifax Fraud Alert Removal: (888) 836-6351
A representative will guide you through identity verification and remove the alert.
To remove a fraud alert by mail:
Send a written request along with identification verifying who you are. Include:
- A copy of your government-issued ID
- A document showing your current address (utility bill, insurance statement, or bank statement)
Mail to:
Equifax Information Services LLC
P.O. Box 105069
Atlanta, GA 30348-5069
Equifax will process your request and notify you once the fraud aleart has been removed.
Final Tip
Always keep copies of all forms, IDs, and correspondence for your records. After removing the alert, monitor your reports for several days to ensure everything updates correctly.
