# How to freeze your TransUnion credit

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

## Before you start

- Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready.
- Expect to create a TransUnion 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 TransUnion's official [credit freeze page](https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze).
- Create or sign in to your TransUnion account.
- Verify your identity.
- Choose to add a freeze to your TransUnion credit report.

An online request must take effect within one business day. TransUnion's freeze page 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 TransUnion

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

## Sources

- [TransUnion: Credit freeze](https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze)
- [CFPB: Security freezes](https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-does-it-mean-to-put-a-security-freeze-on-my-credit-report-en-1341/)