How Do I Place a TransUnion Credit Block?

Pick a TransUnion credit block if you only need to stop new accounts from opening without a PIN, a security freeze if you want to halt all access to your credit report, and a fraud alert if you just need lenders to verify your identity before approving credit.

A credit block lets existing creditors view your report but requires a personal identification number for any new account, so it's ideal when you suspect targeted fraud but still need ongoing credit lines; the freeze locks every inquiry and can only be lifted with a PIN you set, making it the strongest tool for a full‑scale identity‑theft response (see the 'find out if placing a TransUnion block is free or paid' section for cost details).

A fraud alert adds a 90‑day notification flag to your file, prompting lenders to call you for verification, but it does not restrict access or require a PIN, so it works best for a quick precaution while you monitor your accounts (you'll learn how to place a block online in the next step).

Placing a TransUnion credit block costs nothing - TransUnion charges $0 for a block, so you can add it online, by phone, or by mail without paying a fee (the earlier 'decide whether you need a block, freeze, or fraud alert' section explains why a block may be the right choice), and you'll only need the ID documents outlined in the next 'gather the ID documents you need for the block' step;

for official details see TransUnion's credit‑block information.

• Government‑issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) verifies you for a TransUnion credit block.
• Your Social Security number (card or number) links the ID to your credit file.
• A recent utility bill, bank statement, or government notice proves your current address.
• If your name changed, include a marriage certificate or court order that ties the new name to the SSN.
• Once you've decided a block is right (see 'decide whether you need a block, freeze, or fraud alert'), these documents are all you need to start the process.

Start a free TransUnion credit block in under 10 minutes by using the online portal.

1. Go to the official TransUnion 'Credit Block' page (TransUnion credit‑block portal) and click Start a Block.
2. Sign in with your TransUnion account, or create one by entering your email, a password, and a phone number for verification.
3. Verify your identity by uploading a clear photo of a government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and a recent utility bill or bank statement.
4. Review the summary that shows the block will restrict new credit inquiries but does not affect existing accounts; confirm that you understand it is different from a security freeze or fraud alert.
5. Submit the request. TransUnion processes it instantly and displays a confirmation number; an email receipt arrives within minutes.

Proceed to the phone‑script section if you prefer that method.

Call TransUnion's dedicated line at 1‑888‑909‑8872 to place a TransUnion credit block instantly; the service is free, and you'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready for verification.

This phone option follows the 'decide whether you need a block, freeze, or fraud alert' step and precedes the 'see how long your TransUnion block actually lasts' section.

When the agent answers, use the script below to avoid hold‑ups:

• 'I'd like to place a TransUnion credit block on my file.'
• 'My full name is [First Last], SSN [###‑##‑####], DOB [MM/DD/YYYY], and my current address is [Street, City, State, ZIP].'
• 'Can you confirm that the block is active and provide a reference number?'

Ask the rep to read the reference number back, note it, and thank them for confirming the block.

TransUnion credit block phone number

A TransUnion credit block remains in force until you actively remove it; it does not expire on its own.

The block is free and can sit on your file for months or years without additional fees. When a creditor needs access, you can temporarily lift or pause the block and reinstate it instantly.

For the exact steps to remove or pause the block, see the next section how to pause a TransUnion credit block.

You can remove or pause a TransUnion credit block instantly online, by phone, or by mail.

Removing the block lifts the restriction so lenders can see your report; pausing it keeps the block active but lets a single inquiry pull your file for a set period. Both actions cost nothing and take only minutes, provided you have the PIN or password you created when you placed the block.

• Online portal - Log into your TransUnion account, enter your PIN, select 'Remove block' for a permanent lift or 'Temporarily lift' to set a start and end date (minimum 24 hours). Confirm the change; the update is immediate.
• Phone - Call 1‑800‑916‑8800, verify your identity with the PIN, and tell the representative whether you want the block removed or a temporary lift. The agent processes the request on the call and you receive confirmation by email.
• Mail - Write a signed letter including your full name, Social Security number, PIN, and a clear request to 'Remove' or 'Temporarily lift' the block. Send it to TransUnion LLC, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016. Once processed (typically 3 - 5 business days), you'll receive a mailed notice.

After you lift or pause the block, you can apply for credit, loans, or rentals. When you're done, re‑activate the block using the same online portal or phone line to keep your file protected.

After a breach, you can place a TransUnion credit block (either a free Security Freeze or a paid Credit Lock) in minutes.

1. Verify the breach - Open the notification you received, note the breach date and any PIN or case number provided.
2. Choose the right tool - If you need a cost‑free option, select a Security Freeze (required by federal law). If you prefer instant online toggling and are willing to pay, opt for a Credit Lock.
3. Gather identification - Prepare your Social Security number, a government‑issued photo ID, and the PIN or case number from the breach notice.
4. Visit TransUnion's portal - Go to TransUnion Credit Freeze page for a freeze or the Credit Lock section for a lock.
5. Create or log into your account - Enter your name, address, DOB, and the PIN/case number; answer security questions if prompted.
6. Submit the block request - Click 'Place Freeze' or 'Activate Credit Lock,' review the fee details if choosing a lock, and confirm.
7. Record the confirmation - Write down the freeze‑or‑lock confirmation number and keep the email receipt; you'll need the number to lift or pause the block later.
8. Monitor your mail and email - TransUnion will send a final confirmation within 24 hours; verify that the status shows 'Frozen' or 'Locked' in your account dashboard.

(Next, see how long your TransUnion block actually lasts.)

A TransUnion credit block stops new credit inquiries but cannot prevent fraud on existing accounts or misuse of personal data, so it won't stop all forms of identity theft. When you suspect broader compromise, add other protections before moving on.