Deliver a seamless application process to minimize application abandonment

Millions of consumers have locked or frozen credit files, which can create friction in the online application process and lead to missed opportunities. Experian® Instant Unlock™ removes this barrier, allowing applicants to unlock or unfreeze their Experian credit file in a quick, three-step process without leaving the application. 

This is currently the only product in the market that allows consumers to temporarily unlock their Experian credit file during the prequalification or application process without leaving the lender’s environment, bypassing the manual process of contacting the bureau directly. It significantly reduces application abandonment rates for lenders and fosters a more seamless experience for all parties involved.

Give your applicants the power to instantly unlock or unfreeze their credit files 

Reduce application abandonment rates

Allow consumers to authorize the removal of an Experian CreditLock or freeze and complete the online application process without leaving your website.

Streamline user experience

Integrate a seamless, user-friendly and intuitive interface, whether via an iframe or webpage redirect, into your credit application process.

Enhance security

Offer consumers safe and secure access to temporarily unlock or unfreeze their credit files, powered by Experian's identity verification and authentication solutions.

Meet rising consumer needs 

Deliver the security consumers expect — with the friction-free experience they demand 

300%

increase of locked and frozen credit files in the past decade

Experian Internal Analysis, 2026

92%

of locked or frozen consumers maintain a credit score over 660

Experian Internal Analysis, 2026

~70%

online application completion rate of frozen/locked consumers in a fintech deployment (versus 15%)

Experian analysis of anonymized client data, 2026. Results reflect a single client's experience and may not be representative of all users

                                                                                                        

 

Make it easy for consumers to apply online

Through an iframe or webpage redirect, credit applicants can unlock or unfreeze their credit file instantly during the online application process. This temporary five-minute access allows lenders to securely repull the credit file and complete the application. After five minutes, the consumer’s credit file automatically returns to its frozen or locked state, ensuring continued security and protection.

Quick and secure three-step process

1. Opt-in

The consumer opts in to Experian Instant Unlock.

2. Authenticate

Leveraging Experian’s FraudNet and Precise ID®, the consumer’s device is authenticated using device intelligence and their identity is verified through a one-time password sent to their mobile device.

3. Authorize

The consumer grants permission for the temporary removal of the freeze or lock.

Resources

Unlock greater efficiency and convenience
Tech showcase

Unlock greater efficiency and convenience

Watch this product demo to see Experian Instant Unlock in action.

Ready to optimize your online application process?

The form below is for business inquiries only.

To freeze or unfreeze your personal credit report click here or call 1 888 397 3742.

We are unable to address personal credit report and/or membership inquiries via this business form. Visit Experian.com/help or call 888-397-3742 for consumer assistance. For help with your business credit report, please visit Experian.com/small-business. 

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