Michael "The Credit Bear" Barry

Fraud Alert vs. Credit Freeze

To continue in my discussion about a Credit Freeze, I thought it would be beneficial to explain the difference between a Fraud Alert and a Credit Freeze.

Unfortunately, most people think Fraud Alerts and a Credit Freeze are the same thing, but they are not.
They do share 2 common factors:

• Neither prevents your current creditors from viewing your credit report to see how you are handling your debt.
• Neither prevents or limits you from using your open credit accounts.

Ok, so they have similarities, but how do they differ?
Here is a quick reference chart on some of the major differences


Obviously the credit bureaus would rather you place a Fraud Alert instead of a Credit Freeze, or they would make it easier. The bureaus are in the business of collecting and selling credit information about you; anything that prevents that costs them $$$.

So in conclusion, a Fraud Alert may give your new Creditors a Standing 8 count, but a Credit Freeze is a TKO.

Freeze your Credit Report at least.

Several people have asked me "what is a credit report freeze?", "Is this better than a Fraud Alert?" and "should I freeze my credit report?". I will break it down to make it easier for you to decide.

What is a Credit Report Freeze?

A credit freeze is a way to lock down your credit report to make it very difficult for an identity thief to open an account or get a loan in your name. Sounds great right, but remember it not only prevents an identity thief from opening a new account, it also prevents YOU from obtaining new credit. That's right, when your credit report is frozen, new lenders, new creditors, insurers, potential employers, and even you will not be able to access your credit file. Now that's frozen!

Don't worry, you can have the freeze lifted, but it does take time. Each bureau (Equifax, Experian and Trans Union) will have a procedure on how to lift the freeze. It may take a few days and some secure passwords or a personal identification process, but it can be done. I guess this prevents impulse buying.

A couple of things to remember...

• A Credit Freeze is not Free -- there are costs to freezing your credit. Anywhere from $2 to $10, as well as a fee for lifting the freeze.
• A Credit Freeze only prevents NEW accounts -- Don't worry, you can still use those credit cards you have open. You just shouldn't can't get any more.
• A Credit Freeze does not prevent "soft" hits -- Your current lenders will still have access to your credit reports to see how well you are handling your debt.

A credit report freeze is a powerful tool if you understand it's pros and cons, but is it right for you?

Next time I will cover the difference between a Fraud Alert and a Credit Freeze.

Credit Card DO's and DON'Ts -- Common Credit Card Mistakes

In today's lending environment, you have to have established credit in order to get approved for a mortgage. Unfortunately, the easiest way to establish a credit history and add to your score is through credit cards. So, if you've got a pocket full of plastic, there are some DO's and DON'Ts you should always remember about credit cards.

DON'Ts:

• Use your credit card to buy things you can't afford -- It is always best to save for the items you want to buy, or if necessary purchase on an installment loan.
• Use a credit card to make everyday purchases -- This is a habit that leads to debt without knowing how you go there, and nothing to show for it. The only time when you should make everyday purchases on a credit card is when you pay off the entire amount every month.
• Make just the minimum payment -- They are called revolving debt for a reason. If you make the minimum payment, The interest paid increases without decreasing the balance.
• Close a credit card without knowing how it affects your credit score -- Sometimes closing an established credit line will decrease your credit score. Know its impact on your history.

DOs:

• Make good decisions about buying items you need versus those you want -- If it is something you "want", save up for it, you will appreciate it even more.
• Stay below 50% of your credit limit -- Keeping you balances below 50% of your credit limit will help maximize your credit score.
• Negotiate a better interest rate -- You won't get a better rate if you don't ask for one.
• Contact your creditor if you are having trouble -- Let your creditor know in advance if you are going to be late with the payment. Some will even waive the late fee.

Credit Cards can be a useful financial tool if used properly, but can cost you more than money if not.

Make it Happen!