08/13/2016
Q: Checking a credit report will hurt your score?
A: If consumers access their own credit reports, it does not have any effect on their credit scores. Reviewing a credit report results in what is called a “soft pull,” or “soft inquiry,” meaning it will only be seen on a personal credit report. When a consumer applies for credit, the lender will review the applicant’s credit report, and a “hard inquiry” will be added. Hard inquiries are shown to other lenders because they may represent new debt that doesn’t yet show on a credit report as an account. Hard inquiries can affect credit scores. Everyone should check their reports at least annually. It’s part of good credit management.
