Hard Pull vs. Soft Pull: What You Need to Know

Not all credit checks are equal. Here’s the difference between hard and soft inquiries.

Soft Pull (Soft Inquiry)

What it is: A credit check that doesn’t affect your score

When it happens:

• Checking your own credit
• Pre-qualification offers
• Background checks
• Credit limit increases (some issuers)
• Insurance quotes

Impact: Zero. None. No effect on score.

Rate Shopping Exception

Multiple hard pulls for the same type of loan (mortgage, auto) within 14-45 days count as one inquiry. This allows rate shopping without multiple score hits.

Last updated: January 2026 Affiliate disclosure: ShortcutBest may earn a commission when you apply through our links.