How to Freeze Your Credit Reports — Beyond the Big 3

To freeze your credit report, you need to submit a request to each consumer reporting agency separately — including the three major bureaus and alternatives like ChexSystems, LexisNexis, Innovis, and SageStream. Each has its own process, address, and documentation requirements. FreezeReports.com helps you prepare and send all those requests efficiently.

A security freeze (also called a credit freeze) restricts access to your consumer report file. When a freeze is in place, new creditors generally cannot pull your file to approve new credit — helping protect against identity theft. Under federal law, placing and lifting a freeze at the three major bureaus is free. Alternative agencies have their own policies.

A credit freeze is a formal legal protection under the FCRA that restricts access to your file. A credit lock is a product offered by bureaus — easier to toggle but without the same legal protections as a freeze. For maximum protection, a security freeze is generally recommended.

ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that tracks your banking history — including overdrafts, unpaid bank fees, and account closures. Many banks check ChexSystems when you apply to open a checking or savings account. A negative ChexSystems record can result in a denial. You have the right to request a security freeze and a free annual report from ChexSystems.

LexisNexis Risk Solutions is a major data aggregator that compiles public records, identity data, and other consumer information. Their reports may be used for identity verification, insurance applications, and tenant screening. Under the FCRA, you have the right to request a security freeze and a free copy of your LexisNexis consumer report.

No. Placing a security freeze does not affect your credit score. A freeze restricts access to your file but does not change, delete, or negatively affect any information in your consumer report.

FreezeReports.com is an administrative assistance service. We collect your information through a secure intake form, then prepare the written freeze request and consumer report request letters required by each agency. Depending on your package, we either deliver printable letters or handle printing and mailing for you. We are not a law firm, consumer reporting agency, or government agency.

Yes — you have the right to contact each consumer reporting agency directly at no cost. FreezeReports.com saves you the time and effort of researching each agency's process, preparing individual letters, and managing the mailing. Our service is a convenience for those who prefer to have it handled for them.