Many people worry that checking their credit score might lower it. This concern is very common, especially among those trying to improve or protect their financial health. The good news is that checking your own credit score does not hurt it.
Understanding how credit checks work can help you monitor your credit confidently without unnecessary fear.
The difference between soft inquiries and hard inquiries
Whether a credit check affects your score depends on the type of inquiry made on your credit report.
Soft inquiries
A soft inquiry occurs when you check your own credit score or when a company reviews your credit for informational purposes. Soft inquiries:
- Do not affect your credit score
- Are not visible to lenders
- Can happen frequently without consequences
Examples include:
- Checking your credit score through a credit monitoring service
- Pre-qualification checks by lenders
- Background credit checks by employers
Hard inquiries
A hard inquiry happens when a lender reviews your credit as part of a lending decision. Hard inquiries:
- Can slightly lower your credit score
- Are visible to lenders
- Usually stay on your credit report for up to two years
Examples include:
- Applying for a credit card
- Applying for a personal loan or mortgage
- Financing a car
Does checking your credit score count as a hard inquiry?
No. Checking your own credit score is always a soft inquiry. It does not signal financial risk to lenders and has no negative impact on your credit score.
You can check your credit score as often as you want without worrying about damage.
Why checking your credit score is actually a good habit
Monitoring your credit regularly can help you:
- Detect errors on your credit report
- Identify signs of identity theft early
- Track progress when improving your credit
- Make better financial decisions
Many financial experts recommend checking your credit score at least once a month.
When should you be cautious about credit checks?
You should be mindful when applying for new credit, not when checking your score.
Multiple hard inquiries in a short period may slightly lower your score, especially if combined with other risk factors like high balances or late payments.
However, credit scoring models often group similar inquiries (such as mortgage or auto loan applications) within a short time frame to minimize impact.
How much can a hard inquiry affect your credit score?
A single hard inquiry usually lowers a credit score by a few points. For most people, the impact is minor and temporary, especially if the rest of their credit profile is strong.
The effect typically fades within a few months.
Best practices for checking your credit score safely
- Use reputable credit monitoring services
- Avoid unnecessary credit applications
- Review your credit report for accuracy
- Check your score regularly to stay informed
Final thoughts
Checking your credit score does not hurt it. On the contrary, staying informed about your credit is one of the best ways to protect and improve your financial health.
Understanding the difference between soft and hard inquiries allows you to monitor your credit with confidence and avoid mistakes that could negatively affect your score.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. For guidance specific to your financial situation, consider consulting a qualified financial professional.