Filing a Fraud Alert with Credit Bureaus

Initiating a fraud alert with credit bureaus can assist with guarding your identity against theft. A notice is placed on your report from each credit bureau stating that creditors must take additional measures to verify the identity of the applicant before giving them credit in your name. If an identity thief applies for credit using your name, one quick phone call from the creditor verifying personal information with you can stop a potential crime from taking place. Currently there are two types of fraud alerts: an initial alert and an extended alert.

For fraud alerts to be effective, you must place your request with each credit bureau: Transunion, Experian and Equifax. While this seems like overkill, there is no way to confirm that the fraud alert has been placed on file with each credit bureau. It’s always a good rule of thumb to follow up when making any request about your credit report, either by phone or with a confirmation letter, and always document the date, time and the person you spoke with and place it in an accessible file. Credit bureaus do not charge to have a fraud alert added to your credit report.

Requesting Initial Fraud Alerts

Initial fraud alerts stay on your credit report for 90 days. Initial fraud alerts are often requested when a wallet or purse has been stolen or when a consumer suspects they have been a victim of identity theft. At the time of the request, you are entitled to receive one free credit report from each of the credit reporting agencies.

With this type of fraud alert you have the option to let the alert expire or have it removed by request. Equifax now offers automatic fraud alerts for a fee. This feature removes the responsibility of having to remember to renew your fraud alert every 90 days.

For convenience you can now file a fraud alert online with both Experian and Equifax. TransUnion does not offer online fraud alerts, but you can make the request by telephone or mail. (All contact information for the three nationwide reporting agencies is located at the bottom of this page.) When requesting a 90-day fraud alert by mail , be sure to have copies of the following information attached with your request:

• A copy of your state driver’s license or ID card
• A copy of your Social Security card
• A copy of a bill or a bank statement with the same name and address that is on your state driver’s license or ID card.
• If you have recently moved, send a copy of your change of address card for your state driver’s license or ID card.
• (optional) a letter from the Social Security Administration proving that this is your social security number

When sending information to any of the credit reporting agencies always send the request letter by certified mail with return receipt.

TransUnion
Fraud Victim Assistance Department
PO Box 6790
Fullerton , CA 92834-6790

If you requested your fraud alert online, you should receive a confirmation number immediately. If it’s been requested by mail or phone, you should receive a notification letter within the next 10 to 14 business days. This letter will also contain contact information to obtain your free credit report.

Requesting Extended Alerts

Extended fraud alerts can be placed on your credit report if you have been a victim of identity theft, and can provide the credit bureau with a copy of the identity theft report you filed with the local authorities. Extended alerts remain on your credit report for seven years.

Along with the additional extension, you receive two free credit reports within a 12 month period from each credit bureau. On your behalf, the credit reporting agencies also remove your name from marketing lists for pre-screened credit offers for five years. You can always request to be placed back on the list before the five year period expires.