In today’s digital world, children can be targets of identity theft before they even learn how to spell “credit.” While it may seem premature to think about your child’s credit report, freezing it can be one of the most proactive steps you take to protect their financial future.
Why Would a Child Even Have a Credit Report?
Typically, children under the age of 18 don’t have credit histories. However, if your child has been receiving credit card offers or notices in the mail, it may be a sign that their personal information has been misused and they are at risk for identity fraud. Placing a freeze on their credit can help prevent future or further damage and create a record that blocks any fraudulent activity.
What a Credit Freeze Actually Does
A credit freeze restricts access to your child’s credit file, preventing scammers from opening fraudulent accounts. It stays in place until the report owner chooses to lift the freeze; typically, when your child is ready to responsibly manage credit in adulthood.
Even if your child is an authorized user on one of your credit cards (a legitimate way to help build credit), placing a freeze is a useful tool to block fraudulent attempts while still allowing them to use the card.
What You’ll Need to Freeze Your Child’s Credit
Successfully placing the freeze requires you to contact each of the three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Here’s what they’ll typically require:
- Parent/Guardian Documentation:
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of current address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement)
- Your Social Security number
- Your date of birth
- All addresses from the past two years
- Child’s Documentation:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security card
Each bureau has slightly different procedures, but most require mailing in the documents with a printed request form.
Beyond the Freeze: Other Smart Steps
A credit freeze is a great step to protect your child’s identity, but it’s just the beginning. Here are a few additional tips to protect your child from identity theft:
- Keep their Social Security card secured. Avoid sharing it unless absolutely necessary and store it in a locked safe.
- Limit personal data online. Monitor what your children post on social media and consider using your contact info for any online accounts tied to them.
- Educate early. Teach your kids about phishing, scams, and the importance of keeping information private.
- Monitor regularly. Check in with credit bureaus occasionally to ensure no new activity has been attempted.
Why It Matters
Identity theft can create financial hurdles that last years. Taking simple, preventive steps now protects your child’s ability to apply for credit, loans, or housing when they become an adult.
At Harvest Point®, we often help families consider proactive steps like these as part of a comprehensive financial strategy. If you're unsure whether your child's identity may be at risk—or just want help implementing safeguards—we’re here to help guide you.
If you’d like to learn more about working with one of our advisors, get in touch with our team by filling out our Discovery Questionnaire to schedule a 30-minute introductory call. We would love to discuss your legacy, values, and goals to determine if Harvest Point® would be a good fit to help you accomplish them.