No hit to credit scores, and it lifts in minutes when you need to borrow.

IdentityTheft.gov builds the plan

One filing at IdentityTheft.gov generates a recovery plan and pre-filled letters. Check your earnings record at my Social Security too — work in your name shows up there.

Block fake tax filings

An IRS Identity Protection PIN stops returns filed in the stolen name.

← All guides

Shared my ID number

Social Security number, driver's license, or passport

Let's get this done

1Freeze your credit at all three credit agencies. Equifax, Experian, TransUnion. Free, and each link goes straight to the freeze page.

2File at IdentityTheft.gov. One report covers most of it.

3Watch statements for 60 days. Small test charges come first. Pull all three reports free at AnnualCreditReport.com.

Good to know

Started by Lauren
Improved by 1 other
Aug 2026

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