How to Freeze Your Credit
We all know fraud and identity theft is on the rise—take steps to protect your information. In general, we encourage you to remain vigilant by reviewing your account statements and monitoring your credit reports for suspicious activity. Under U.S. law you are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus. To order your free credit report, visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call, toll-free, 1-877-322-8228.
You have the right to place a “security freeze” on your credit report, which will prohibit the release of the information in your credit report without your express authorization. The security freeze is designed to prevent credit, loans, and services from being approved without your consent. However, be aware that using a security freeze may delay or prohibit the timely approval of any application you make regarding a new loan, credit card, mortgage, or any other application involving the extension of credit. There is no charge to place or lift a security freeze on your credit report. Should you wish to place a security freeze, please contact the major consumer reporting agencies listed below:
Experian
P.O. Box 9554 Allen, TX 75013
1-888-397-3742
www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
TransUnion
P.O. Box 160 Woodlyn, PA 19094
1-888-909-8872
www.transunion.com/creditfreeze
Equifax
P.O. Box 105788 Atlanta, GA 30348-5788
1-888-685-1111
www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services
Note: The credit bureaus already have your name and other personal information in their files. You will be providing it to verify your identity.
Securities are offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Personal Benefit Financial is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. Kestra IS and Kestra AS do not provide tax or legal advice.
The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC/ This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. Comments concerning the past performance are not intended to be forward-looking and should be viewed as an indication of future results.
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