# How to freeze your Experian credit

Experian is one of the three nationwide credit bureaus. Freezing your Experian file is free and stops most lenders that use Experian from pulling your report.

## Before you start

- Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready.
- Expect to create an Experian account and answer identity questions the first time.
- Use a strong, unique password and save it. You'll need this account to lift the freeze later.

## Freeze online

- Go to Experian's official [Freeze Center](https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html).
- Create or sign in to your Experian account.
- Verify your identity.
- Choose to add a security freeze to your Experian credit report.

An online request must take effect within one business day. Experian's Freeze Center also lists its phone and mail options.

## Lift or thaw it later

Sign back in and either remove the freeze or lift it temporarily for the dates you choose. An online lift must happen within one hour.

## Don't stop at Experian

A freeze only covers the bureau you placed it with. Also freeze at [Equifax](/guides/freeze-equifax) and [TransUnion](/guides/freeze-transunion). See the [full guide to freezing all three](/guides/how-to-freeze-your-credit).

## Sources

- [Experian: Freeze Center](https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html)
- [CFPB: Security freezes](https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-does-it-mean-to-put-a-security-freeze-on-my-credit-report-en-1341/)