Your credit score is a starting point. Understand the story behind it.
Learn what a score represents, why scores differ, and what deserves your attention.
Read the guideCredit basics
Hard vs. soft inquiries: know the difference
What happens when you or a lender checks your credit.
Checking your own credit
Reviewing your own report is a soft inquiry and does not lower your credit score. Some other checks are also soft inquiries.
Applying for credit
A credit application may lead to a hard inquiry, which can affect scores. Ask the provider what kind of check it will perform before applying.
An inquiry you do not recognize
Research the listed business; it may use a different name. If the inquiry remains unfamiliar, contact the business and consider whether identity theft may be involved.
Results vary by individual credit profile. No score increase, deletion, or credit approval is guaranteed. Accurate and timely negative information generally cannot be removed simply because it affects a credit score. You can dispute credit report errors yourself at no charge.
General educational information. Not legal or individualized financial advice.
