Need to Unfreeze Your Credit Report?

When you unfreeze, or lift, a credit freeze, you allow access to your credit report again. You may need to do this when applying for a credit card, loan, mortgage, apartment, or another service that needs to review your credit. Lifting a credit freeze is free.

Do You Need to Unfreeze All Three Credit Reports?

Not always. If you know which credit bureau the lender or company will use, you may only need to lift the freeze with that bureau. If you do not know which bureau will be checked, you may need to lift the freeze with more than one.

Can You Temporarily Lift a Credit Freeze?

Yes. You can temporarily lift a freeze for a period of time you choose instead of removing it permanently. When that period ends, the freeze can remain in place to continue restricting access to your credit file.

How Quickly Can a Credit Freeze Be Lifted?

If you request the lift online or by telephone, the credit reporting company generally must lift it within one hour. A request made by mail generally must be completed within three business days after it is received.

Can You Freeze Your Credit Again?

Yes. After the lender or company has finished checking your credit, you can place the freeze back on your credit report. Placing and lifting a credit freeze is free.

Need Help Unfreezing Your Credit Reports?

If you are not sure which credit bureau to contact or how to lift your freeze, call us at 800-518-1077.

We can help you understand the process and what your next step should be.

Reviewed by Tina Kayhan, President of TheCreditBureau.com, with more than 30 years of experience in credit reporting, identity protection, and consumer credit services.