Credit Checks May 2026

Soft inquiries happen when your credit report is checked for reasons not related to a formal credit application.

Credit Checks 101: Understanding Inquiries and Your Score Credit checks, often called , are formal requests to review your credit history. They allow lenders, landlords, and even employers to assess your financial reliability by looking at your past behavior. credit checks

A hard inquiry occurs when you apply for a new line of credit, such as a mortgage, auto loan, or credit card. Soft inquiries happen when your credit report is