SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dad-freeze-child

Who can request a credit freeze for a child under 16?

A parent or guardian, and it is free.

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  1. Only the child's school
  2. No one, it is not allowed
  3. A parent or guardian ✔

Why: A freeze makes it harder for someone to open new accounts in your child's name. You contact each of the three bureaus. Minors 16 or 17 can request it themselves.

Huh, didn't know that: FTC warning sign: someone contacts you about your child's overdue bill on an account you never opened.

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I had my credit card stolen the other day but I didn't bother to report it because the thief spends less than me.
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References

Answer: A parent or guardian. A freeze makes it harder for someone to open new accounts in your child's name. You contact each of the three bureaus. Minors 16 or 17 can request it themselves.

  1. CFPB: What is a credit freeze or security freeze? www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-is-a-credit-freeze-or-security-freeze-on-my-credit-report-en-1341
    Persons with authority to act for these protected consumers can request a security freeze.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. FTC: How To Protect Your Child From Identity Theft consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-protect-your-child-identity-theft
    Minors who are 16 or 17 may request and remove a security freeze themselves.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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