Any individual whose financial account information has been compromised should place a fraud alert on their credit reports to alert creditors and potential creditors to potentially fraudulent activity. When placing a fraud alert on your credit reports it is important to know that there are two types: a temporary fraud alert (good for one year) and an extended fraud alert (good for seven years). A temporary fraud alert can be applied for by anyone using the methods below, but an extended fraud alert can only be applied for by victims of identity theft who have proof they are a victim of identity theft.
Visit each Credit Reporting Agency’s (CRAs) website individually and use their online forms for placing a 90-day fraud alert.
After you place the fraud alert, they will send you an email or give you a prompt on the screen to view your credit reports, for free, to make sure everything is okay.
For best results, the ITRC suggests you contact all three CRAs yourself. If you file with one agency they may contact the other two for you, but this can take a few days.
Call each Credit Reporting Agency using their specific hotline for fraud alerts.
- Equifax Ð 800.525.6285
- Experian Ð 888.397.3742
- TransUnion Ð 800.680.7289
Keep in mind you will not be able to actually speak with anyone when calling these hotlines, they are automated. They will ask you for the following information:
- Your Social Security number
- Mailing address
- Your birthdate
You should receive a confirmation letter in the mail within three weeks after placing the fraud alert via phone call.
When placing a fraud alert by mail with the three CRAs you will need to send each agency a cover letter explaining your request and documentation proving your identity. Send each packet via Certified Mail with a Return Receipt to ensure the proper delivery of your personal information.
Include:
- A copy of your valid Driver’s License or State ID with your current address
- A change of address card or printout if you have moved
- A copy of your Social Security card
- A copy of a current bill, bank statement, pay stub or lease agreement that shows your name and the same address that is on your ID
- A copy of your identity theft police report (if applying for the 7-year Fraud Alert)
All fraud alerts can be reinstituted after the specified time frame is up, at no charge.
If you have additional questions or concerns you can receive no-cost assistance from the expert advisors at ITRC. Call us toll-free at 888.400.5530 or LiveChat with an expert today.
