Are credit freezes/unfreezes instant?

[abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxy]

I know it's just the click of a button, but in a real world scenario, does it actually freeze/unfreeze instantly? And if I'm going to be applying for a new card, should I wait 10-15 min after an unfreeze just in case? Thanks!

[MrCreditInternational]

It was instantaneous in my experience a few years ago, but I'd personally wait 10-15 minutes just in case.

[abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxy]

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@MrCreditInternational wrote:

It was instantaneous in my experience a few years ago, but I'd personally wait 10-15 minutes just in case.

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tyvm!

[Gunnerboy]

Yes, they are.  Once, I had to unfreeze my EQ while a BoA bank officer was helping me open an account.  Seconds after I unfroze it, he was able to see my file.

[coldfusion]

Keep in mind though that legally (freeze/thaw is a regulated activity) the reporting agencies are allowed to take up to an hour to do it if the request is made over the phone or online.  

[markbeiser]

Instantish.

[AndySoCal]

@abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxy  I was preparing to apply for membership with Langley FCU. I Langley to verify if they pulled a credit report for membership. I was told yes and the credit bureau was Equifax the same bureau would also be used for the credit card application. With Equifax there was the option for a limited time (you specify the dates ) or a permanently unthaw the credit report. I chose the limited time option and all went well. I checked today the credit report was frozen again. The time frame chose was based on membership approval time frame provided by the credit union and a little cushion just in case.