🚩 How to Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit
Add a one-year fraud alert to your credit files for free.
💰
Free
⏱️
Active within about 24 hours; lasting one year (or 7 years for extended)
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📋 Documents you'll need
- Proof of identity (SSN, address history)
- For extended alerts: an FTC identity theft report or police report
- Contact information for creditors to reach you
🪜 Step-by-step
- Contact any one of Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion online or by phone; it must notify the other two.
- Provide your identifying details and confirm your contact phone number for verification.
- The initial alert lasts one year; businesses must verify your identity before issuing new credit.
- If you have an FTC Identity Theft Report, request the extended 7-year alert with the bureaus.
- Monitor your free credit reports and statements; renew alerts if needed.
| Estimated cost | Free |
|---|---|
| Typical timeline | Active within about 24 hours; lasting one year (or 7 years for extended) |
Note This guide is general information and procedures, fees, and rules can change and vary by state or agency. The official authority is always the relevant government office and its official website. See our Disclaimer.
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Frequently asked questions
Fraud alert vs credit freeze?
A fraud alert requires verification before new credit; a freeze blocks access entirely. You can use both.
Do I need to contact all three bureaus?
No. One bureau must relay the initial alert to the other two, though extended alerts require each bureau directly.
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