A secondary bureau freeze is the process of restricting access to your credit file at non-traditional credit bureaus and debt collectors use for identity verification and risk assessment. It matters because these bureaus often supply data used in credit decisions, collections, tenant screening, and fraud checks, even though consumers rarely monitor them. Freezing these reports can reduce identity theft risk, limit unauthorized data usage, and prevent debt collectors from easily validating or re-reporting accounts, making it a strategic step in both credit protection and advanced credit repair.
You probably know about freezing your credit with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. These are the big three credit bureaus. But did you know there are dozens of other companies collecting information about you? They track your bank accounts, rental history, utility bills, and more. These companies are called secondary bureaus. And yes, you can freeze them too.
Secondary bureau freezes work like regular credit freezes. They stop companies from accessing your information without permission. This protects you from identity theft and fraud. But many people don't even know these bureaus exist. This guide explains everything you need to know about secondary bureau freezes and how to protect yourself.
What Are Secondary Bureaus?
Secondary bureaus are officially called Specialty Consumer Reporting Agencies, or SCRAs. They collect specific types of information about you. Unlike the big three credit bureaus that track all your credit, each secondary bureau focuses on one area.
Think of it this way. The big three bureaus are like general stores. They carry everything. Secondary bureaus are like specialty shops. Each one focuses on a specific product.
There are dozens of specialty consumer reporting agencies, including LexisNexis, Innovis, and ChexSystems, that maintain extensive consumer databases.
Why Do Secondary Bureaus Matter?
These bureaus affect your life in ways you might not realize. A landlord might check your rental history. A bank looks at your checking account record before opening a new account. An insurance company reviews your claims history.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, more than 1.1 million reports of identity theft were received in 2024. Identity thieves don't just open credit cards. They also open bank accounts, apply for utilities, and rent apartments using stolen information.
If someone steals your identity, they might not show up on your regular credit report right away. But they could appear in secondary bureaus first. That's why protecting these reports matters.
What Types of Secondary Bureaus Exist?
Each type of secondary bureau tracks different information. Here are the main categories:
Banking and Check Writing History
These bureaus track how you handle bank accounts and checks.
ChexSystems is the most well-known. ChexSystems monitors checking and savings account activity and assigns a score based on how those accounts are used. If you overdraw your account or bounce checks, it goes in your ChexSystems report.
Banks check ChexSystems before opening new accounts. A bad ChexSystems report can prevent you from getting a checking account for five years.
Early Warning Services and TeleCheck work similarly. They help banks and stores decide whether to accept your checks.
Credit Information
Innovis is sometimes called the fourth credit bureau. Innovis collects information about credit accounts, payment history, and public records. Some lenders use Innovis for identity verification and fraud prevention.
Clarity Services focuses on alternative financial services. They track payday loans, rent-to-own agreements, and installment loans. If you've used these services, Clarity Services probably has a file on you.
SageStream provides supplementary credit data. They help lenders make decisions about borrowers with limited credit history.
Rental and Tenant History
CoreLogic SafeRent and LeasingDesk track your rental history. They record whether you pay rent on time. They note if you've been evicted. Landlords check these reports before renting to you.
Utility and Phone Bills
National Consumer Telecom & Utilities Exchange (NCTUE) tracks your telecom and utility bill payments. If your NCTUE report shows a history of missing payments, utility providers might demand deposits and telecom providers might not offer attractive terms.
Insurance Claims
LexisNexis C.L.U.E. (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) tracks home and auto insurance claims. Insurance companies check this before giving you a quote. More claims mean higher rates.
A-PLUS and MIB Group track health and life insurance information. MIB focuses on medical conditions related to insurance applications.
Employment and Background
LexisNexis also maintains employment history, address history, and public records. Employers might check this during background checks.
How Do Secondary Bureau Freezes Work?
A secondary bureau freeze stops the bureau from sharing your report. When someone tries to access your information, they get a notification that your file is frozen.
The freeze doesn't delete your information. It just blocks access. Think of it like locking a file cabinet. Your papers are still inside. But no one can open the drawer without your key.
What Happens When Your File Is Frozen
Let's say you freeze your ChexSystems report. A bank tries to check your banking history. ChexSystems won't release your information. The bank sees a message saying your file is frozen.
Most times, this means the application gets denied. The bank can't verify your information. They won't open the account.
This is good when it stops identity thieves. But it's bad when you're the one applying. That's why you need to unfreeze your report before applying for new services.
Who Can Still Access Your Frozen Report
Freezes don't block everyone. Some companies can still see your information:
- Companies you already do business with
- Collection agencies for your existing accounts
- Government agencies in certain situations
- Your own requests to see your report
The specific rules vary by bureau and by state law. But generally, existing relationships aren't affected.
When Should You Freeze Secondary Bureaus?
Freezing secondary bureaus isn't right for everyone. Consider your situation first.
You Should Freeze If:
You've been a victim of identity theft. This is the biggest reason. If someone already stole your identity, protect all your information. Don't just freeze the big three credit bureaus. Freeze secondary bureaus too.
You suspect your information was compromised. Maybe your company had a data breach. Perhaps you lost your wallet. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, the number of data compromises in 2024 was 3,158, just one percent less than the record set in 2023. Data breaches happen constantly. If your information might be out there, protect it.
You're not planning major life changes soon. If you won't be renting an apartment, opening bank accounts, or applying for utilities in the next few months, freezing makes sense. It adds protection without causing problems.
You want maximum security. Some people just want extra protection. If security matters more than convenience, freeze everything.
You Might Not Need to Freeze If:
You're actively job hunting. Employers might check employment verification bureaus. A freeze could delay your background check.
You're apartment hunting. Landlords check rental history bureaus. You'll need to unfreeze before each application. This gets tedious.
You're opening new utility accounts. Moving to a new place? You'll probably need electricity, water, and internet. Utility companies check NCTUE. Plan ahead if your reports are frozen.
You switch banks frequently. Each new bank account requires access to ChexSystems or similar bureaus.
How Much Do Secondary Bureau Freezes Cost?
This depends on the bureau and your state.
For the big three credit bureaus, freezes are always free. Federal law requires this. But secondary bureaus follow different rules.
Some secondary bureaus offer free freezes. ChexSystems, Innovis, LexisNexis, and SageStream all provide free security freezes. You can freeze and unfreeze without paying.
Others might charge fees. The cost varies by state. Some states require free freezes. Others allow companies to charge. Fees typically range from $5 to $10 per freeze or unfreeze.
Check the bureau's website for current pricing. Many have updated their policies to offer free freezes even when not required.
How to Freeze Your Secondary Bureau Reports
Each bureau has its own process. But they all follow a similar pattern.
Step 1: Identify Which Bureaus to Freeze
You don't need to freeze every single one. Focus on the ones most likely to affect you:
- ChexSystems (if you have bank accounts)
- Innovis (for general credit protection)
- LexisNexis (for insurance and background checks)
- NCTUE (if you have utility accounts)
- CoreLogic SafeRent (if you rent)
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau maintains a complete list of consumer reporting companies. You can find it on their website.
Step 2: Gather Your Information
You'll need:
- Your full legal name
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Current address
- Previous addresses (usually for the past two years)
- Phone number
- Email address
- A copy of your driver's license or other ID (for some bureaus)
Have this information ready before you start. It makes the process faster.
Step 3: Contact Each Bureau
Most bureaus let you freeze online. Some require phone calls or mail. Here's how to contact the major ones:
ChexSystems:
- Online: chexsystems.com
- Phone: 800-428-9623
- Mail: ChexSystems, Inc., Attn: Security Freeze, P.O. Box 503793, San Diego, CA 92150
Innovis:
- Online: innovis.com/securityFreeze
- Phone: 800-540-2505
- Mail: Innovis Security Freeze, P.O. Box 1358, Columbus, OH 43216
LexisNexis:
- Online: consumer.risk.lexisnexis.com/freeze
- Phone: 800-456-1244
SageStream:
- Phone: 888-395-0277
NCTUE:
- Online: nctue.com/consumers
- Phone: 866-349-5185
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
The bureau needs to confirm you're really you. This might involve:
- Answering security questions based on your file
- Uploading a copy of your ID
- Providing personal information that matches their records
This verification step protects you. It prevents someone else from freezing (or unfreezing) your reports.
Step 5: Save Your Confirmation
After you freeze your report, the bureau sends confirmation. This might be:
- A PIN number
- A confirmation code
- A username and password
- A confirmation email
Save this information. You'll need it to unfreeze your report later. Store it somewhere safe. Don't lose it.
How to Unfreeze Your Reports
You'll need to unfreeze before applying for new services. The process is usually quick.
Temporary Unfreezing
Most bureaus let you unfreeze temporarily. You choose a time period. Maybe one day. Maybe one week. After that time, the freeze automatically turns back on.
This is perfect when you're applying for something specific. You unfreeze just long enough for the application. Then you're protected again.
Permanent Unfreezing
You can also remove the freeze completely. Your report goes back to normal. Companies can access it anytime.
Only do this if you're sure you want the freeze removed. You can always freeze again later. But it requires going through the whole process again.
How Long Does Unfreezing Take?
Adding or removing a freeze online or by phone typically takes effect almost immediately, though it's advisable to wait a few minutes. If you request it by mail, it can take a few days.
Plan ahead. If you need access right away, use the online or phone option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
People make predictable errors when freezing secondary bureaus. Don't make these mistakes:
Freezing Right Before You Need Access
Don't wait until the day you're applying for an apartment to realize your rental history is frozen. Unfreeze at least a day before you need it. Give yourself time for any delays.
Losing Your PIN or Password
You need this to unfreeze. Write it down. Store it securely. If you lose it, getting a new one takes time and effort.
Forgetting Which Bureaus You Froze
Keep a list. Write down every bureau where you have a freeze. Note the date you froze it. Include your PIN or password.
Not Freezing Enough Bureaus
Freezing only ChexSystems isn't enough. Identity thieves can still use other bureaus. Freeze all the major ones that apply to your situation.
Freezing Too Many Bureaus Without Reason
On the flip side, don't freeze everything if you don't need to. If you're actively job hunting or apartment searching, selective freezing makes more sense.
Do Freezes Affect Your Credit Score?
No. Freezing your credit report won't affect credit scores that are based on the report.
Your credit score comes from the information in your credit report. A freeze doesn't change that information. It just controls who can see it.
You can still check your own score. Your current creditors can still monitor your credit. The scoring models still work the same way.
The only difference is that new lenders can't pull your credit to make lending decisions. But this doesn't hurt your score.
How Freezes Differ from Fraud Alerts
People often confuse freezes with fraud alerts. They're different tools.
A freeze completely blocks access to your report. No one can see it without your permission.
A fraud alert doesn't block access. Instead, it tells companies to verify your identity before opening new accounts. They should call you to confirm it's really you.
Fraud alerts are easier. You only need to place them with one of the big three bureaus. They automatically notify the others. The alert lasts one year. You can renew it.
Freezes are stronger. But they require more work. You must contact each bureau separately.
For serious identity theft, use both. Put fraud alerts on your main credit reports. Freeze your secondary bureau reports. This gives you maximum protection.
What About Credit Locks?
Some companies offer "credit locks" instead of freezes. They sound similar but work differently.
Locks are usually paid services. Companies bundle them with credit monitoring or identity theft protection. You pay a monthly fee.
The big advantage of locks is convenience. You can lock and unlock instantly through an app. No PINs to remember. No waiting.
But locks aren't regulated like freezes. Companies can change the terms. They might charge fees. And locks don't always provide the same legal protections as freezes.
Security freezes are free and you have a right to them by law, while credit locks often come with fees bundled with other services.
For most people, free freezes work just fine. Save your money.
Can You Still Get Your Own Reports When Frozen?
Yes. You can request, see and review your files when a freeze is in place.
Freezes only stop others from accessing your reports. You always have the right to see your own information.
You should check your reports regularly even when frozen. Look for errors. Watch for signs of fraud. Make sure the freeze is working properly.
Under federal law, you can get free reports from many bureaus once per year. Some bureaus provide reports more often. Check each bureau's policy.
How to Monitor Your Reports
Freezing isn't enough. You also need to monitor your reports. Check them regularly for suspicious activity.
Set a Schedule
Check your main credit reports every four months. Space them out. Get your Equifax report in January. Your Experian report in May. Your TransUnion report in September.
Check secondary bureaus once a year. Pick an easy date to remember. Maybe your birthday. Or January 1st.
Look for Red Flags
When you review reports, watch for:
- Accounts you didn't open
- Addresses you never lived at
- Employers you never worked for
- Inquiries you didn't authorize
- Bank accounts you don't recognize
Even small errors matter. They could be signs of fraud. Or they could hurt your applications later.
Dispute Errors Immediately
If you find mistakes, dispute them right away. The dispute process usually takes 30 days.
Contact the bureau in writing. Explain the error. Provide proof if you have it. The bureau must investigate.
Also contact the company that reported the wrong information. Dispute it with them too. This fixes the problem at the source.
What to Do If You're a Victim of Identity Theft
If someone steals your identity, act fast.
Immediate Steps
- Place fraud alerts on your credit reports (call one of the big three bureaus)
- Freeze all your credit reports and secondary bureau reports
- Report the theft to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov
- File a police report
- Contact companies where fraud occurred
Long-Term Protection
Keep your freezes in place. Monitor all your reports closely. Consider identity theft protection services.
Document everything. Save copies of all reports, letters, and confirmations. You might need them later.
The recovery process takes time. According to recent data, credit card abuse was the largest category of identity theft in 2024. But identity thieves also target bank accounts, utilities, and rentals. Protect all your information, not just credit cards.
Tips for Managing Multiple Freezes
Managing freezes across multiple bureaus gets complicated. Here's how to stay organized:
Create a Spreadsheet
List every bureau where you have a freeze. Include:
- Bureau name
- Date frozen
- PIN or password
- Contact information
- Notes about when you might need to unfreeze
Update this spreadsheet whenever anything changes.
Use a Password Manager
Store your PINs and passwords in a secure password manager. This keeps them safe and accessible. You won't forget them.
Set Calendar Reminders
Add reminders to check your reports. Schedule annual reviews. Note when temporary unfreezes will expire.
Keep Physical Copies
Print your freeze confirmations. Store them in a safe place. Digital copies can get lost. Paper lasts.
Are There Alternatives to Freezing?
Freezing is the strongest protection. But you have other options.
Fraud Alerts
As mentioned earlier, fraud alerts require companies to verify your identity. They're easier than freezes. But they're also weaker.
Use fraud alerts if freezing seems like too much work. Or use both for maximum protection.
Credit Monitoring
Many companies offer credit monitoring services. They watch your reports. They alert you to changes.
Monitoring doesn't prevent fraud. But it helps you catch it early. The sooner you know, the less damage occurs.
Some monitoring services are free. Others charge monthly fees. Decide if the cost is worth it for your situation.
Opt-Out Programs
You can opt out of prescreened credit offers. Call 888-567-8688 or visit optoutprescreen.com.
This reduces the chances of identity thieves intercepting offers sent to your address. It doesn't replace a freeze. But it adds a layer of protection.
Final Thoughts on Secondary Bureau Freezes
Secondary bureau freezes are powerful tools. They protect information that many people don't even know exists. Identity thieves target these bureaus because fewer people monitor them.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, representing a 25% increase over the prior year. Fraud is increasing. Protection matters more than ever.
Don't wait for identity theft to happen. Take control now. Freeze your secondary bureau reports. Monitor them regularly. Stay vigilant.
The process takes a few hours to set up. But it provides years of protection. Your identity is worth it.
Remember that freezing isn't perfect. It doesn't stop all fraud. Someone could still misuse your existing accounts. But freezes make it much harder for thieves to open new accounts in your name.
Combine freezes with other security practices. Use strong passwords. Enable two-factor authentication. Be careful with your personal information. Check your accounts regularly.
Protection is a process, not a one-time event. Stay informed. Stay protected. Your financial future depends on it.