Part of becoming unburdened from financial stress is knowing that your most personal information is secure and private. Following the instructions below helps our members know that no one is accessing their personal information without their permission and prevents financial bad actors from taking advantage of unsecured credit reports.
Experian
To freeze your Experian credit report:
- Go to https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
- Click “Freeze My Credit File.”
- Select “Add a Security Freeze.”
- Create or sign in to your Experian account.
- Verify your identity (you may need your Social Security Number, date of birth, and address).
- Follow the on-screen steps to confirm the freeze.
- You’ll receive a PIN or password—keep it safe for when you need to temporarily lift or remove the freeze.
Equifax
To freeze your Equifax credit report:
- Visit https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze/
- Click “Place or Manage a Freeze.”
- Select “Get Started.”
- Create or sign in to your myEquifax account.
- Confirm your personal information to verify your identity.
- Choose “Place a Freeze.”
- Once completed, you’ll get confirmation and can log back in anytime to temporarily lift or remove the freeze.
Transunion
To freeze your Transunion credit report:
- Go to https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze
- Click “Add a Freeze.”
- Select “Start Freeze.”
- Create or log in to your TransUnion account.
- Verify your identity with your SSN, address, and security questions.
- Confirm to place your credit freeze.
- You’ll receive a confirmation notice and can later thaw (unfreeze) your report online anytime.
Tips for All Three Bureaus
- Freezing is free — there’s no charge to freeze or unfreeze your credit.
- Keep your login credentials and PINs secure.
- Freezing your credit does not affect your credit score.
- You can temporarily lift a freeze if applying for new credit, then re-freeze afterward.
Consumer Advocacy Services FAQ
If you are seeking to avoid bankruptcy, a solution may be debt settlement. Our team has been assisting consumers and business owners with debt for nearly two decades.
What is Debt Settlement?
Debt Settlement (also referred to as debt negotiation, negotiated debt settlement or sometimes incorrectly called debt consolidation) means that your debt is negotiated down to a reduced amount and paid off in a lump sum. In some rare cases, multiple payments are utilized to pay off the debt, settling the account in full. Settlement is one of the most effective choices available to consumers. It’s a great choice if you have more debt than you can pay off in a 2 – 3 year time frame or are experiencing a financial hardship that has you falling behind (or just about to be) on your monthly payments. Why would creditors choose to settle debts rather than simply charge you interest and late fees over and over again? Well, it’s really a matter of dollars and good sense. Creditors know that if you get into such a bad financial position that you can’t pay your monthly payments, not to mention the amount of money consumers pay in interest and promotional fees. Therefore, they are usually very willing to settle for a lower amount, given your specific situation. One of our Debt Specialists will go through a full consultation to see if you can qualify.
Why should I use Pinnacle Legal, P.C. to settle my debts as opposed to handling it myself?
Pinnacle Legal has impeccable relationships with the creditors and collection agencies. You will also receive full legal representation with an attorney in your state for your protection. As well as specializing in FDCPA (Fair Debt Collection Practices Act) violations to assist in getting you the best settlements possible.
Do I have to include all my debts into a debt settlement program?
No. You may choose which debts you would like to enroll in the program. Your debt consultant will help you decide the best plan of action based on your current financial situation.
Who is holding my money while I’m waiting on settlement?
Your funds will be held at under your control within your own account, which is an FDIC insured trust account. This account will be opened in your name with you having ultimate control over its funds. The monies collected in this account get disbursed to creditors once you have agreed as well as cover expenses associated with the settlement.
Get in Touch
Set up a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys.
Cost-effective legal expertise tailored to your needs.
Read our blog
Dive into our comprehensive blog, where industry experts share invaluable insights, trends, and updates on legal developments.
Read blog →
Let’s Discuss How Pinnacle Legal Can Assist You
Reach out and connect with our expert team. Whether you have questions, need advice, or seek personalized solutions.