 TITLE: Should You Freeze Your Child’s Credit File? CONTENT: One of the most effective ways to prevent a thief from opening credit cards and loans in a child's name is to freeze his or her credit file. The major credit reporting agencies (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax) offer this tool. When it's in effect, a lender can't check that credit file, so they wouldn't be able to issue a credit card or loan in your child's name.\nYou can freeze a credit report for a minor in your care as long as they're age 15 or younger. Once a child turns 16, they'll be able to manage the freeze on their own. A credit freeze can take up to five business days after the request is received to go into effect. To thaw a credit freeze, you'll have to use a password-protected account or a PIN (personal identification number).\nTo freeze a child's credit report through Experian, you'll need to submit a freeze request by mail. This request will need to include copies of various identification forms, including the child's birth certificate and Social Security card, as well as identification forms and proof of guardianship belonging to the adult requesting the freeze. END