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Children are prime targets for identity theft — it can go undetected for years. A credit freeze costs nothing and takes minutes.
Over 1 million childrenare victims of identity theft each year. Thieves use children's SSNs because fraud can go undetected for 16+ years until they apply for their first credit card or student loan.
1M+
Child ID Theft
Victims per year
16 yrs
Average Time Undetected
Until child applies for credit
$0
Cost to Freeze
Free at all bureaus
Data Breaches Affect Babies Too
Equifax
Mail request with child's birth cert, SSN card, your ID, proof of address, and proof of guardianship.
Experian
Online request at experian.com/freeze or mail documents. They'll create a file and freeze it.
TransUnion
Mail request with same docs. They'll confirm via mail within 10 business days.
No Existing File?
Required Documentation
| Feature | Document | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | Copy | Proves child's identity |
| Child's SSN Card | Copy | Links to credit file |
| Your Gov't ID | Copy | Proves you're the parent |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill | Matches your identity |
| Guardianship Proof | If applicable | Court order if not birth parent |
Freeze All Three Bureaus
Do this as soon as you have the SSN card (6-8 weeks after birth).
Consider Unfreezing
If they need to become an authorized user on your credit card.
Transfer PIN/Access
Give your child the freeze PINs so they can manage their own credit.
Temporary Thaw
Unfreeze briefly when applying for student loans or first credit card.
Key Takeaways