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Glossary

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Personal Finance
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Glossary

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What is a Hard Inquiry?

A request made by a potential lender to view a consumer's credit report(s) that typically results in a five- to ten-point deduction in the credit score of the consumer. Hard inquiries made show up in the consumer's credit report and stay there for up to two years.

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Articles

Thu Sep 19 2019

What is a Hard Inquiry? What is a Soft Inquiry? [Infographic]

When a potential creditor looks at your credit reports to help them make a lending decision, it is considered an inquiry. But how they look at it—with a “hard inquiry” or “soft

Financial Advisor Explaining Information to Couple

Thu Dec 15 2022

Hard vs Soft Credit Checks: What’s The Difference?

Applying for credit can be a daunting process. From finding the right credit card or auto loan to filling out a mortgage application and waiting for approval, obtaining new credit

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