How to Lock or Freeze Your Credit by Mail: A Step-by-Step Guide for DVC Owners

How to Lock or Freeze Your Credit by Mail: A Step-by-Step Guide for DVC Owners

Freezing your credit is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from identity theft — especially after a data breach or suspicious activity. While many choose to freeze their credit online or by phone, you can also submit a request by mail to each of the three major credit bureaus.

This guide walks you through how to request a credit freeze by mail and explains the documents required. It also outlines how DVC Title Alert members can access up to $1 million in identity theft restoration services if fraud does occur.


📬 Where to Mail Your Freeze Requests

You must send a separate freeze request to each of the three major credit bureaus:

TransUnion®

TransUnion LLC
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19016

Equifax®

Equifax Security Freeze
P.O. Box 105788
Atlanta, GA 30348

Experian®

Experian Security Freeze
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, TX 75013


📄 Required Documents to Include

Each bureau requires you to verify your identity and current address. Be sure to include:

1. Personal Information in the Request Letter:

  • Full name, including any suffix (e.g., Jr., Sr., II)

  • Complete current address (include previous if moved within 2 years)

  • Social Security Number

  • Date of birth

2. Proof of Identity (Include ONE copy):

  • Valid driver’s license or state-issued ID

  • U.S. passport

  • Social Security card

  • Birth certificate

  • Pay stub, W-2, or 1099 tax form

  • Court documents (e.g., marriage certificate, legal name change)

  • Military or state ID

3. Proof of Address (Include ONE copy):

  • Utility bill

  • Cell phone bill

  • Bank or mortgage statement

  • Lease or rental agreement

  • Valid driver’s license (if it shows current address)

  • Pay stub, W-2, or 1099 with address

  • Property deed

📌 Documents should be recent (within the last 60 days) and clearly show your full name and address.


👮‍♀️ For Victims of Identity Theft

If you're a victim of identity theft, also include a copy of one of the following:

Providing this documentation may qualify you for fee waivers depending on your state.


💵 Are There Fees?

In most states, freezing your credit is free. However, some states may charge a small fee unless you are a confirmed victim of identity theft. Contact each bureau or your state’s attorney general to confirm.


🧠 Why Freeze Your Credit?

A credit freeze prevents new credit from being issued in your name — one of the most common methods used by identity thieves. At DVC Title Alert, we recommend freezing your credit as a smart, proactive measure.

As a DVC Title Alert member, you’re already covered by $1 million in identity theft restoration services — including help restoring accounts, legal fees, and lost wages. This protection is available for verified identity theft incidents reported within 30 days of discovery.


✅ After You Freeze Your Credit

Once you’ve completed your credit freezes:

  1. Save copies of all documents and letters you sent.

  2. Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.

  3. Notify DVC Title Alert immediately if you suspect identity theft so we can begin a restoration claim.

🛡️ We’re here to support you every step of the way — but time matters. Claims must be initiated within 30 days of discovering suspicious activity and require documented proof of credit freeze steps like these.


📞 Need Help?

If you have questions about freezing your credit or starting a claim under your restoration coverage, contact our support team. We're happy to walk you through your next steps and ensure your DVC membership — and your identity — stay safe.